Skip to main content

Lymphatic Transport

Meaning

Lymphatic Transport is the fundamental physiological process by which interstitial fluid, macromolecules, absorbed dietary lipids, and immune cells are collected from peripheral tissues and ultimately returned to the systemic blood circulation via the lymphatic system. This essential network functions as a critical regulator of fluid balance, preventing tissue edema, and serves as the main route for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and chylomicrons from the small intestine. Furthermore, it plays a non-negotiable role in immune surveillance, ensuring the transport of antigens and immune cells to the lymph nodes for the initiation of an adaptive immune response. Efficient lymphatic transport is vital for metabolic, immune, and fluid homeostasis.