How VEGFR signaling affects lymphatic junctions and function

VEGFR Signaling Controls Lymphatic Junctions

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA · NIH-10886061

This study is looking at how changes in the VEGFR3 gene might cause congenital lymphedema, which leads to swelling in the limbs, and it uses mice to learn more about how this gene helps lymphatic vessels work properly, with the hope of finding new ways to treat conditions like Milroy’s disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (TAMPA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10886061 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of VEGFR3 gene mutations in congenital lymphedema, a condition that causes limb swelling and increased infection risk. By using a mouse model, the study aims to understand how the VEGFR3 gene regulates the functioning of lymphatic vessels and their junctions. The researchers will explore how these junctions, which are crucial for lymphatic capillary function, are affected by the absence of VEGFR3. This could lead to insights into the pathogenesis of Milroy’s disease and potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital lymphedema caused by mutations in the VEGFR3 gene.

Not a fit: Patients without congenital lymphedema or those with different underlying causes of lymphedema may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new drug therapies for patients suffering from congenital lymphedema and related conditions.

How similar studies have performed: While VEGFR3 has been studied in relation to lymphangiogenesis, this specific investigation into its physiological functions in lymphatic junctions is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

TAMPA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.