Spring 2020 – Effects of Low-Dose Radiation on the Lymphatic Vessels of the Chorioallantoic Membrane

The effectiveness of radiation therapy to treat malignant tumors depends in part on its effect on lymphatic vessels in and adjacent to the tumor. Although high-dose ionizing radiation is known to obliterate lymphatic vessels and inhibit subsequent lymphangiogenesis in vivo, the effects of low-dose radiation is poorly established. The purpose of our research is to utilize the chicken Chorioallantoic Membrane (CAM) model as a platform to evaluate the effect of low-dose radiation on growth and remodeling lymphatic microvessels. We have been able to identify. The CAM allows for the measurement of the same blood vessels before and after radiation, and is constantly undergoing lymphatic growth because of continuous increase in flow. We are currently working on solving some challenges with the CAM model, such as keeping temperature constant, maintaining viability ex ovo, and visualizing the vessels. We will then be radiating specimens and quantifying changes in lymphatic function. This is an early-stage project that has potential to expand in scope over several semesters based on interests of participants.