Abstract:

In this paper, we have reviewed the central nervous system (CNS) lymphatic circulation and related diseases. The lymphatic system is an important component of circulatory system. However, classic lymphatic vessels consisted of endotheliocytes are not found within CNS. Indeed, the central lymphatic circulation exists. Virchow-Robin space (VRS) is regarded as main component of the central lymphatic circulation, which resembles peripheral lymphatic system functionally and plays an important role in the regulation of CNS homeostasis. VRS plays the function of central lymphatic drainage, through which the macromolecular substances in cerebral interstitial fluid are cleared. Also, VRS is the main part of immune surveillance system. The central lymphatic circulation works crucially in the development of related diseases within CNS, such as lymphostatic encephalopathy, demyelinating diseases, CNS neoplasms, CNS infections, protein conformational diseases, etc.

Key words: Central nervous system, Lymphatic system, Review

摘要：

淋巴系统是循环系统的重要组成部分，中枢神经系统无衬有内皮细胞的淋巴管，但存在结构和功能意义上的淋巴循环。Virchow-Robin 间隙是中枢淋巴循环的主要结构，具有与外周淋巴管相似的功能，对维持中枢神经系统正常生理功能具有重要作用。Virchow-Robin 间隙具有淋巴引流功能，脑间质液中的大分子物质主要经此途径引流；Virchow-Robin 间隙也是免疫监视的重要组成部分。中枢淋巴循环在淋巴滞留性脑病、脱髓鞘疾病、中枢神经系统肿瘤、中枢神经系统感染和蛋白质异常折叠性疾病的发生与发展过程中发挥关键作用。

关键词: 中枢神经系统, 淋巴系统, 综述