Abstract
Lymphatic leakage can be seen as a detrimental phenomenon associated with fluid retention and deposition as well as gain of weight. Moreover, lymphatic dysfunction is associated with an inflammatory environment and can be a substrate for other health conditions. A number of treatments can ameliorate lymphatic vasculature: natural substances have been used as treatment options particularly suitable for their consolidated effectiveness and safety profile. Here we report the protective effect of AdipoDren®, an association of a series of plant-derived natural complexes, on lymphatic endothelium permeability promoted by interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and the associated molecular mechanisms. AdipoDren® demonstrated a protective effect on dermal lymphatic endothelial cell permeability increased by IL-1β. Reduced permeability was due to the maintenance of tight junctions and cell-cell localisation of occludin and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1). Moreover, AdipoDren® reduced the expression of the inflammatory key element cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), while not altering the levels of endothelial and inducible nitric oxide synthases (eNOS and iNOS). The upregulation of antioxidant enzymatic systems (catalase and superoxide dismutase-1, SOD-1) and the downregulation of pro-oxidant markers (p22 phox subunit of NADPH oxidase) were also evident. In conclusion, AdipoDren® would be useful to ameliorate conditions of altered lymphatic vasculature and to support the physiological functionality of the lymphatic endothelium.