A multi-model approach to characterise conserved regulators of lymphatic vascular development

Abstract:: Lymphatic vessels play central roles in fluid homeostasis, immunity, fatty acid transport and cancer metastasis. Sox18 is a master regulator of lymphatic cell fate that functions by regulating Prox1. The genes that drive lymphatic development downstream of Sox18 and Prox1 remain to be characterised. We have identified a number of candidate Sox18-dependent lymphatic genes and will utilise the genetic tools available in zebrafish, cultured lymphatic endothelial cells and the mouse embryo, to investigate their roles in lymphatic development. The outcomes will improve our fundamental understanding of lymphatic system development, identifying therapeutic targets with great potential to impact on the health of Australians throughout life.
Grant type:: ARC Discovery Projects
Funded by:: Australian Research Council

The University of Queensland