Expert review reveals ongoing controversies surrounding central nervous system fluid transport, highlighting critical knowledge gaps in neurodegenerative disease mechanisms.
The glymphatic concept along with the discovery of meningeal lymphatic vessels have, in recent years, highlighted that fluid is directionally transported within the central nervous system (CNS). Imaging studies, as well as manipulations of fluid transport, point to a key role of the glymphatic-lymphatic system in clearance of amyloid-β and other proteins. As such, the glymphatic-lymphatic system represents a new target in combating neurodegenerative diseases. Not unexpectedly, introduction of a new plumbing system in the brain has stirred controversies. This opinion article will highlight what we know about the brain's fluid transport systems, where experimental data are lacking, and what is still debated.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Mestre et al. (2020) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: