Recent advance in lymphatic drainage of central nervous system affecting clearance of β-amyloid

Abstract

Central nervous system lymphatic drainage system (CNSLDS) is composed of glymphatic system, perivascular lymphatic drainage pathways and meningeal lymphatic vessels. Based on new findings of structures and functions of CNSLDS, CNSLDS is one of the mechanisms for promoting the clearance of β-amyloid (Aβ). CNSLDS functions physiologically as a route of drainage for Aβ from glymphatic system or perivascular lymphatic drainage pathways to meningeal lymphatic vessels, and the meningeal lymphatic vessels helps Aβ drainage to the nearby lymph nodes. In this review, we summarize the key component elements (structure and function) in the clearance of Aβ during the CNS lymphatic drainage. Also, we highlight their potential roles in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease and their clinical importance in diagnosis and treatment of neurologic diseases associated with Aβ, including Alzheimer's disease. Key words: Central nervous system; Lymphatic drainage system; Glymphatic system; Meningeal lymphatic vessel; β-amyloid protein