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Cardiac derived neutrophil chemotactic factors; preliminary biochemical characterization

S A Elgebaly1, P Masetti, M Allam

  • 1Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington 06032.

Insights

Isolated hearts perfused with cardioplegic solutions release neutrophil chemotactic factors (NCF), indicating an inflammatory response. This occurs regardless of oxygen or dextrose presence, suggesting ischemia contributes to NCF release.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Immunology
  • Physiology

Background:

  • Cardioplegic solutions are used to preserve isolated hearts during surgery.
  • Inflammatory mediators can impact organ preservation and recovery.
  • Neutrophil chemotactic factors (NCF) are key mediators in inflammatory responses.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine if isolated hearts perfused with cardioplegic solutions release NCF.
  • To investigate the influence of oxygenation and dextrose on NCF release.

Main Methods:

  • Rabbit hearts were perfused with different cardioplegic solutions (complete, minus oxygen, minus dextrose).
  • Perfusate samples were collected at various time points (5 min to 4 h).
  • Neutrophil chemotactic activity was measured using modified Boyden chambers with rabbit neutrophils.

Main Results:

  • High levels of NCF were detected in perfusate from all tested conditions after 4 hours.
  • Significant NCF levels were found even after short perfusion times (5 min).
  • Histological evaluation confirmed global ischemia in the perfused hearts.

Conclusions:

  • Isolated hearts perfused with cardioplegic solutions release chemotactic factors.
  • NCF release occurs independently of oxygenation or dextrose in the perfusate.
  • Ischemia likely contributes to the release of these inflammatory mediators.

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