Thoracic Duct Lymph in Unanesthetized Mouse. Method of Collection, Rate of Flow and Cell Content.

Abstract

A method is described for the collection of thoracic duct lymph in the unanesthetized mouse. Initial values for lymph flow and lymphocyte output did not vary significantly as between anesthetized and unanesthetized mice. Over a 24 hr period, lymph flow and lymphocyte output decreased significantly in the unanesthetized animals. The volume and cell content of thoracic duct lymph collected from the neck or the abdomen of the anesthetized mouse did not vary significantly depending on the site of collection.