Lymph node vascular-stromal growth and function as a potential target for controlling immunity

Lymphadenopathy occurs in many autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, and vascular proliferation is a common feature in the enlarged lymph nodes. The lymph node vasculature plays critical roles in delivering immune cells as well as oxygen and micronutrients, and therefore represents a potential target for therapeutic manipulation of immunity. In this review, we discuss recent insights made in understanding the growth and function of the vascular and associated stromal compartment in immune-stimulated lymph nodes and the potential utility of altering this process in autoimmune diseases.

► Lymphadenopathy in autoimmune diseases is accompanied by vascular proliferation.
► The regulation and function of lymph node vascular-stromal growth are being studied.
► The lymph node vascular-stromal compartment is a potential therapeutic target.