Lymphatic transport of proteins after subcutaneous administration

This mini-review summarizes the relevant literature regarding the lymphatic transport of proteins after subcutaneous administration. A review of the physiology of the lymphatics and inherent anatomical differences between blood and lymph capillaries is presented followed by a brief overview of the general characteristics of protein absorption and bioavailability following S.C. injection. A description of factors known to directly affect the lymphatic uptake of macromolecules follows and is supported by representative data from this laboratory. A brief perspective on the importance of lymphatic uptake and transport in understanding the biopharmaceutical properties of protein drugs and potentially targeting the lymphatics is presented. (C) 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.