Method of measuring propulsion in lymphatic structures

摘要

Novel methods and imaging agents for functional imaging of lymph structures are disclosed herein. Embodiments of the methods utilize highly sensitive optical imaging and fluorescent spectroscopy techniques to track or monitor packets of organic dye flowing in one or more lymphatic structures. The packets of organic dye may be tracked to provide quantitative information regarding lymph propulsion and function. In particular, lymph flow velocity and pulse frequency may be determined using the disclosed methods.

主权项

1. A method of mapping architecture of lymph structure comprising lymphangions and lymph vessels, wherein the method comprises:
a) administering a non-particulate fluorescent organic dye to a tissue that is drained by a lymph structure, wherein the dye is taken up and carried by lymph fluid through the lymphangions and lymph vessels; b) illuminating the tissue surface adjacent to the lymph structure with excitation light to excite the organic dye carried by the lymph fluid within lymphangions and lymph vessels, wherein the architecture of the lymphangions and lymph vessels is visualized; c) repeatedly imaging the fluorescent light emitted by the organic dye for acquisition times of about 10 milliseconds to about 1 second, producing a series of single images, wherein said series of single images are collected over a period of about 1 second to about 30 minutes; and d) analyzing the images, wherein said analyzing comprises generating a map of said lymphangions and lymph vessels.