Changes in canine leukocyte glucocorticoid receptors during endotoxin shock

We studied changes in canine leukocyte glucocorticoid receptors during endotoxin shock. Blood samples for analysis were collected and leukocytes were isolated just prior to and 2 and 6 hours after endotoxin administration. Employing 3H-dexamethasone (3H-Dex) as a ligand, we studied 3H-Dex-specific binding of the leukocytes in dogs and their changes during endotoxin shock. Results from two groups (anesthetized and conscious) showed that the specific binding of the leukocytes decreased significantly 2 hours after endotoxin administration in both groups and 6 hours after endotoxin in anesthetized dogs. In conscious dogs, the specific binding returned to normal by 6 hours. No correlation was found between the changes of serum cortisol and 3H-Dex-specific binding. It may be suggested that perturbations in glucocorticoid hormone action at the receptor level might be involved in the pathogenesis of endotoxin shock.