Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2026

3D Cine Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Respiratory Motion in Mechanically Ventilated Mice and Rats
Published on: September 19, 2025
The effects of mechanical ventilation on oxidative stress
Objective:
Mechanical ventilation is a mainstay of therapy in intensive care units; however, its deleterious effects need to be assessed. Therefore, we aimed to assess oxidative stress in patients admitted to an intensive care unit undergoing invasive mechanical ventilation.
Methods:
This cross-sectional study included 12 invasive mechanical ventilation patients. Blood samples (3 mL) were collected on the first and last days on invasive mechanical ventilation. Thiobarbituric acid-reacting substances (TBARS) were assessed in plasma, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were assessed in erythrocytes.
Results:
The mean age was 64.8 ± 17.6 years, the tidal volume (VT) 382 ± 44.5 mL, and the APACHE II score 15 ± 7. When initial and final TBARS were compared, a significant difference was identified (3.54 ± 0.74 vs. 4.96 ± 1.47, p = 0.04). Antioxidant enzymes showed no significant differences. Correlations between PaO2/FiO2 and TBARS (r = 0.4), SOD and PaO2/FiO2 (r = 0.51) and APACHE II and SOD (r = 0.56) were identified. Six patients died.
Conclusion:
Patients undergoing invasive mechanical ventilation can develop redox state changes, showing increased TBARS and reduced antioxidant enzymes.
Related Concept Videos
Mechanical Ventilation I: Indication and Settings
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation
Mechanical Ventilation II: Invasive Ventilation
Negative-Pressure Ventilators
Negative-pressure ventilators create a vacuum around the chest or body to draw air into the lungs, simulating breathing. This method does not require an...
Physiological Control of Respiration
Breathing, a seemingly passive process, is regulated by the respiratory center in the brainstem. This center coordinates the involuntary control of respirations, which means it occurs without conscious effort, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted pattern.
Regulation of Ventilation
The body maintains ventilation by monitoring levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), and hydrogen ion concentration (pH) in the arterial blood. Among these factors, the level of CO2 plays a crucial...
Oxygen Requirements and Growth Patterns
Factors Affecting Pulmonary Ventilation
Alveolar Surface Tension
The alveolar fluid lines the luminal surface of the alveoli and exerts a force called surface tension. This force is caused by the polar water molecules in the liquid being more strongly attracted to each...

