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Oral administered nonabsorbable antibiotics prevent endotoxemia in primates following intestinal ischemia

P Gathiram1, M T Wells, J G Brock-Utne

  • 1Department of Physiology, University of Durban-Westville, South Africa.

Insights

Temporary superior mesenteric artery (SMA) occlusion increases plasma lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Prophylactic antibiotics prevented this rise, indicating LPS originates from the gut, crucial for intestinal surgery patients.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Research
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Plasma lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels elevate during superior mesenteric artery (SMA) occlusion.
  • The intestinal origin of this LPS increase requires elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine if the gut is the source of increased plasma LPS following temporary SMA occlusion.
  • To assess the efficacy of prophylactic nonabsorbable antibiotics in mitigating LPS elevation.

Main Methods:

  • Eight monkeys underwent temporary SMA occlusion.
  • Four monkeys received prophylactic oral kanamycin; four served as controls.
  • Plasma LPS concentrations were measured before, during, and after occlusion/reperfusion.

Main Results:

  • Control group showed a significant increase in plasma LPS post-occlusion and reperfusion (P < .001).
  • Kanamycin group maintained baseline LPS levels throughout the experiment.
  • Antibiotic prophylaxis prevented LPS elevation.

Conclusions:

  • The gut is the primary source of increased plasma LPS after temporary SMA occlusion.
  • This finding is significant for managing patients undergoing intestinal surgery.
  • Nonabsorbable antibiotics may mitigate LPS-related complications.

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