Non-selective beta-blockers enhance resolution of induced infections in animals and healthcare-associated infections in humans
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) pose significant risks, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and costs, exacerbated by multi-drug-resistant microorganisms. This study aimed to evaluate pharmacological prophylaxis targeting sympathetic reflex control of immunity to mitigate systemic infections, offering a novel approach to combating HAIs. The study included animal experiments and a retrospective analysis of orthopedic surgery patients in Romagna, Italy. Young female pigs were intravenously inoculated with Escherichia coli (E. coli) and divided into two groups: propranolol-treated (non-selective β-blocker; 3 mg/kg; 3x/day orally) and vehicle-treated, starting two days before infection. Parameters such as bacteraemia, serum cytokines, biochemical profile, blood count, lactate, glycemia, and flow cytometry were assessed. Additionally, a retrospective analysis of 92,649 orthopedic surgery hospitalizations (2017-2022) examined the association of non-selective and selective β1-blockers with HAI development using conditional logistic regression. Propranolol-treated pigs exhibited a disinhibited immune response to systemic infection, clearing circulating bacteria much earlier than vehicle-treated animals. The retrospective analysis showed that patients on non-selective beta-blockers had a 71.7% reduced risk of developing HAIs, while those on selective β1-blockers had an 18% higher risk. These findings suggest that targeting sympathetic reflex control of immunity via pharmacological prophylaxis may reduce HAIs in surgical patients.
Source: Scientific Reports
Authors: Alessandra Occhinegro, Domenico Ventrella, Simona Rosa, Luca Alberti, Roberto Amici, Matteo Cerri, Timna Hitrec, Domenico Tupone, Alessandra Cappellini, Stefano Ratti, Alberto Elmi, Augusta Zannoni, Silvia Felici, Davide Golinelli, Marco Luppi, Yugeesh R. Lankadeva, Clive N. May, Robin M. McAllen, Michael J. McKinley, Patricia Passaglia, Emiliana Piscitiello, Ludovico Taddei, Maddalena Giannella, Pierluigi Viale, Maria L. Bacci, Paola Rucci, Tiziana Lazzarotto, Davide Martelli
Institutions: Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Bologna, Oregon Health & Science University, University of Pisa, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Della Romagna, The University of Melbourne, Universidade de São Paulo, IRCCS Azienda Ospedliero-Universitaria di Bologna Policlinico di Sant'Orsola
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,690
OpenAlex ID: W4415920269