Numerical and experimental investigation of phase differences in lymphatic vessel chains*

We use experiments and numerical simulations of lymphatic vessels to investigate the valve dynamics within lymphangion chains. Our goal is to understand the impact of phase differences between consecutive lymphangions on lymphatic pumping efficiency. In the simulations we systematically vary the phase differences to identify the optimal configuration for fluid transport, characterized by pumping efficiency, work done by the vessel, and flow rate. We also consider the pumping performance under an adverse pressure gradient. We compare our numerical results with experimental data obtained using a lymphatic vessel mimetic. We find close agreement between the computational results and our experiments. This research offers insights into the biomechanics of lymph transport and can be useful for designing biomedical devices to enhance lymphatic drainage.