Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 23, 2026

Mouse Model of Oleic Acid-Induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Published on: June 2, 2022
Trauma alarmins as activators of damage-induced inflammation
J Manson1, C Thiemermann, K Brohi
1Trauma Sciences, The Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, 4 Newark Street, London E1 2AT, UK. joanna.manson@gmail.com
Background:
A systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is frequently observed after traumatic injury. The response is sterile and the activating stimulus is tissue damage. Endogenous molecules, called alarmins, are reputed to be released by injured tissues but the precise identity of these mediators is unclear. This review summarizes current preclinical and clinical evidence for trauma alarmins and their role in innate immune activation.
Methods:
A comprehensive literature review of putative alarmins in tissue damage after traumatic injury was conducted.
Results:
The presence of SIRS at admission is an independent predictor of mortality after trauma. The primary initiators of the human immune response are unclear. Several endogenous substances display alarmin characteristics in vitro. Preclinical studies demonstrate that blockade of certain endogenous substances can reduce adverse clinical sequelae after traumatic injury. Human evidence for trauma alarmins is extremely limited.
Conclusion:
The magnitude of acute inflammation is predictive of outcome after trauma, suggesting that an early opportunity for immune modulation may exist. An understanding of the mechanisms of innate immune activation following trauma may lead to new therapeutic agents and improved patient survival.
Related Concept Videos
Inflammatory Response
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Acute Inflammation III: Local and Systemic Effects
Inflammation
Acute Inflammation I: Inflammatory Response
Inflammation: Introduction
Chronic Inflammation: Introduction

