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Updated: Aug 25, 2026

Neutrophil Lifespan Extension with CLON-G and an In Vitro Spontaneous Death Assay
Published on: May 12, 2023
Benzodiazepines inhibit the rate of neutrophil apoptosis
Y Goto1, C O'Malley, N F Fanning
1Intensive Care Unit, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia.
Background:
Benzodiazepines, which are commonly administered perioperatively, can depress immune function. Neutrophil apoptosis plays a central role in the regulation of inflammation. This is particularly important during and after surgery.
Aim:
To examine the effects of benzodiazepines (midazolam and diazepam) on neutrophil apoptosis.
Methods:
Venous blood samples were withdrawn from patients scheduled to undergo elective surgery, (a) immediately prior to, and 10 minutes after administration of midazolam 0.2 mg/kg intravenously (n=11) and (b) immediately prior to, and 60 minutes after administration of diazepam 10 mg p.o. (n=10). Neutrophil apoptosis was measured by Annexin V-FITC after 1 and 12 hours in culture.
Results:
The percentage of apoptotic cells was significantly less after midazolam at 12% (11.9) hours in culture compared to pre-midazolam 29.7% (13.3) (p<0.05). After diazepam, the rates of neutrophil apoptosis were also significantly less after 12 hours in culture (p<0.05).
Conclusion:
Administration of benzodiazepines in clinically relevant doses inhibits neutrophil apoptosis. In the perioperative period, this may influence the inflammatory response to surgery.
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