The primary hormones identified as being carried by lymph are progesterone and estrogen, specifically in females.
Hormones and Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in the transport of various substances throughout the body. While it is known that lymph contributes to the overall availability of hormones, research has pinpointed certain female hormones as key players in lymphatic physiology.
Female Hormones in Lymph
According to the reference provided, lymphatic endothelial cells (LEC) express receptors for both:
- Progesterone
- Estrogen
This expression suggests a specific interaction and importance of these hormones within the lymphatic system. The study also highlights that lymph is a route for these hormones to become available systemically within the body.
Why This Specificity?
The focus on female hormones in lymphatic transport suggests their potential roles in lymphatic function itself, possibly related to the regulation of:
- Immune responses
- Fluid balance
- Tissue maintenance
However, there may be other hormones transported by lymph that have not been thoroughly researched, so the knowledge remains ongoing in this field.
| Hormone | Associated Sex | Carried by Lymph | Receptors on LEC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Progesterone | Female | Yes | Yes |
| Estrogen | Female | Yes | Yes |
In summary, based on the provided reference, the hormones identified as being carried by lymph are progesterone and estrogen, specifically in the context of female physiology.
