Related Experiment Videos
Reticuloendothelial system phagocytic function in obstructive jaundice and its modification by a muramyl dipeptide
Summary
Extrahepatic biliary tract obstruction impairs reticulo-endothelial system (RES) phagocytic function, as shown by prolonged clearance of micro-aggregated human albumin (HMAA). Immune stimulation with N-acetyl-L-alpha-aminobutyryl-D-isoglutamine normalized this function in jaundiced animals.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gastroenterology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Obstructive jaundice can lead to impaired reticulo-endothelial system (RES) phagocytic function.
- This impairment may increase the risk of endotoxin overspill from the portal to the systemic circulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of extrahepatic biliary tract obstruction on RES phagocytic function.
- To evaluate the potential of immune stimulation to restore RES function in obstructive jaundice.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of RES phagocytic function using the clearance rate of intravenous micro-aggregated human albumin (HMAA).
- Comparison of HMAA clearance in patients and rats with obstructive jaundice versus non-jaundiced controls.
- Administration of the immune stimulator N-acetyl-L-alpha-aminobutyryl-D-isoglutamine to jaundiced animals.
Main Results:
- Prolonged HMAA clearance was observed in both patients and rats with extrahepatic biliary tract obstruction (p < 0.001).
- The mean HMAA clearance rate in jaundiced animals treated with N-acetyl-L-alpha-aminobutyryl-D-isoglutamine was similar to that of non-jaundiced controls.
Conclusions:
- Extrahepatic biliary tract obstruction significantly impairs RES phagocytic function.
- Immune stimulation with N-acetyl-L-alpha-aminobutyryl-D-isoglutamine can effectively restore RES phagocytic function in obstructive jaundice.
- Modulating RES function may be a therapeutic strategy to prevent endotoxemia in obstructive jaundice.