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Patterns of bacterial translocation in experimental biliary obstruction
J S White1, M Hoper, R W Parks
1Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Queen's University of Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom. calgarysurgeon@mac.com
The Journal of Surgical Research
|September 13, 2005
Summary
Bile duct ligation in rats significantly increased live bacterial translocation. Non-viable bacterial fragments were found in sterile sites in all animals, suggesting impaired bacterial clearance contributes to translocation.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Microbiology
- Surgical Research
Background:
- Biliary obstruction impairs intestinal barrier function, leading to bacterial translocation.
- Traditional methods may miss translocated dead bacterial fragments, which can trigger inflammation.
- This study investigated bacterial translocation in experimental biliary obstruction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify and characterize bacterial translocation in a rat model of biliary obstruction.
- To compare bacterial translocation between rats with bile duct ligation and sham-operated controls.
Main Methods:
- Wistar rats underwent bile duct ligation (BDL) or sham operation.
- Rats received radiolabeled Escherichia coli orally.
- Bacterial presence and radiolabel activity were measured in liver, spleen, lymph nodes, and lungs.
Main Results:
- Significantly higher live bacterial translocation was observed in BDL rats compared to controls (P = 0.00008).
- Labeled bacterial fragments were detected in all sampled tissues across both groups.
- BDL rats showed increased bacterial survival (30% +/- 13%) versus 0% in sham-operated rats.
Conclusions:
- Non-viable bacterial fragments are present in extra-intestinal sites even in healthy animals.
- Bile duct obstruction markedly increases the translocation of live bacteria.
- Impaired bacterial killing is a key factor in facilitating bacterial translocation during biliary obstruction.