Overview

• Researchers mapped a novel cerebrospinal fluid drainage route through superficial lymphatic vessels under facial skin that connect to submandibular lymph nodes.
• A handheld force-regulated device applied gentle strokes to the face and neck and doubled CSF outflow, reversing age-related clearance deficits in mice.
• Low-magnitude stimulation proved critical for efficacy, as higher forces constricted vessels and diminished tracer uptake.
• Repeated daily treatments over four days sustained enhanced drainage without desensitizing lymphatic contractions.
• Investigators are now evaluating the method in Alzheimer’s models and exploring development of non-invasive wearable or clinical devices for neurological conditions.