Work

Cytokines in Sepsis: Potent Immunoregulators and Potential Therapeutic Targets—An Updated View

Year: 2013

Type: review

Abstract: Sepsis and septic shock are among the leading causes of death in intensive care units worldwide. Numerous studies on their pathophysiology have revealed an imbalance in the inflammatory network leading to tissue damage, organ failure, and ultimately, death. Cytokines are important pleiotropic regulators of the immune response, which have a crucial role in the complex pathophysiology underlying sepsis. They have both pro- and anti-inflammatory functions and are capable of coordinating effective defense mechanisms against invading pathogens. On the other hand, cytokines may dysregulate the immune response and promote tissue-damaging inflammation. In this review, we address the current knowledge of the actions of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in sepsis pathophysiology as well as how these cytokines and other important immunomodulating agents may be therapeutically targeted to improve the clinical outcome of sepsis.

Source: Mediators of Inflammation

DOI: 10.1155/2013/165974

Authors: Wibke Schulte, Jürgen Bernhagen, Richard Bucala

Institutions: Yale University, Universitätsklinikum Aachen, RWTH Aachen University

Language: English

Topic: Sepsis Diagnosis and Treatment

Subfield: Critical Care and Intensive Care Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,040