PLVAP as a novel player for lymphatic malformations in the SOX18-VEGFC regulatory network

This project aims at exploring a new, unexpected role for a gene in the development of the lymphatic system. This gene is in the regulatory network controlled by SOX18, a gene mutated in a syndrome characterized by primary lymphedema. We plan to combine the use of a small fish, as a potent animal model which enables to visualize blood and lymphatic vessels in a non invasive way, with human cells. We believe that the data generated through this project will increase our knowledge on the genetic bases of lymphatic malformations.