1Department of Agronomy, Animals, Food, Natural Resources and the Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padua, Italy
2Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Zakho, Duhok, Iraq
3Allergy and Asthma Center, Blue Area, Islamabad, Pakistan. Former Chief, Clinical and Tropical Diseases Research Division, National Institute of Health, Islamabad. Former HOD Allergy & Immunology, NIH, Islamabad, Pakistan
4Nigde Omer Halisdemir University
چکیده
The lymphatic system serves as a crucial interface between immune surveillance and tissue homeostasis, with lymphatic injury triggering profound immunological changes. A well-functioning lymphatic system is essential for robust immunity, and several lifestyle interventions can significantly enhance its performance. This integrated system is essential for proper circulation, nutrient processing, and host defence, demonstrating how its structural design directly supports its multifaceted physiological roles in maintaining overall health. The growing understanding of lymphatic-immune interactions has led to innovative therapeutic strategies targeting lymphatic function for immune enhancement. This review synthesizes current knowledge on lymphatic-immune interactions, beginning with fundamental mechanisms of antigen transport and lymphocyte trafficking, then exploring clinical connections to inflammatory and metabolic disorders. A key focus examines how lymphatic injury modulates regulatory T cell (Treg) biology - patient studies reveal 6-fold increased Treg accumulation in lymphoedematous tissues, while murine models demonstrate these are predominantly proliferating natural Tregs (CD4+FoxP3+Nrp-1+) that locally suppress inflammation yet may compromise antimicrobial defence. Emerging therapeutic strategies are discussed across three fronts: pharmacological approaches targeting lymphatic pumping, immunomodulatory interventions in cancer, and evidence-based natural adjuvants. The review culminates by highlighting practical lifestyle modifications - including specialized exercise protocols, hydration strategies, and manual lymphatic drainage techniques - that may synergize with clinical interventions. By supporting lymphatic vessel integrity, fluid transport, and immune cell trafficking, these interventions not only improve pathogen defence and vaccine responsiveness but also mitigate chronic inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and cancer progression. Together, these findings position lymphatic function as a master regulator of immune balance, offering novel pathways for managing conditions ranging from lymphedema to autoimmune diseases through combined mechanistic and holistic approaches.