Examination of antimicrobial effect of fluoxetine in experimental sepsis model: An in vivo study

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Immunology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Sepsis, a life-threatening condition, arises from infections and presents a major medical challenge.
• In-vivo studies suggest fluoxetine possesses properties beneficial for treating infections.
• Investigating fluoxetine's role in sepsis management, particularly its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential, is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects of fluoxetine in a rat model of sepsis.
• To assess fluoxetine's impact on key inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in sepsis.
• To determine if fluoxetine enhances the efficacy of imipenem in treating sepsis-induced inflammation.

Main Methods:

• An experimental sepsis model was established in rats, divided into control and treatment groups (fluoxetine, imipenem, combined).
• Levels of inflammatory markers (PCT, hs-CRP, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, MCP-1), lactate, and MPO activity were measured.
• Oxidative stress markers (TOS, TAS, TT, NT, OSI) were quantified using photometric and ELISA methods.

Main Results:

• Fluoxetine, imipenem, and their combination significantly reduced inflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, MCP-1, hs-CRP, PCT, lactate, MPO activity).
• Oxidative stress markers, including OSI and disulfide levels, were decreased in the treatment groups.
• Total thiol (TT), native thiol (NT), and total antioxidant status (TAS) levels were significantly increased, indicating improved antioxidant capacity.

Conclusions:

• Fluoxetine demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in an experimental sepsis model.
• Combined treatment with fluoxetine and imipenem exhibited synergistic effects, improving outcomes in sepsis.
• These findings suggest fluoxetine as a potential adjunctive therapy for sepsis management.