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Alterations in mucosal immune cell distribution in septic rats
J Osterberg1, C Johnsson, G Gannedahl
1Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden.
Shock (Augusta, Ga.)
|March 1, 1997
Summary
Sepsis alters immune cells in the gut. T lymphocytes decrease, while macrophages and MHC class II cells increase in the intestinal mucosa 24 hours after induced sepsis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gastroenterology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Reduced cell-mediated immunity in the intestinal mucosa can lead to gut barrier dysfunction and bacterial translocation during shock.
- Understanding immune cell distribution in the intestine during sepsis is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate alterations in the distribution of immune cell components within the intestine during experimental sepsis.
- To analyze changes in T lymphocytes, macrophages, and MHC class II positive cells in the gut mucosa.
Main Methods:
- Intra-abdominal sepsis was induced in rats via cecal ligation and puncture.
- Immunohistochemical staining was performed on small bowel sections using specific monoclonal antibodies.
- Cell populations analyzed included MHC class II positive cells, T lymphocytes (pan T, CD4+, CD8+), and macrophages.
Main Results:
- A significant reduction in pan T lymphocytes, CD4+ T lymphocytes, and CD8+ T lymphocytes was observed in the intestinal mucosa of septic rats compared to controls (p < .01).
- Conversely, populations of MHC class II positive cells and macrophages significantly increased in the septic group (p < .01).
Conclusions:
- Sepsis induces a significant alteration in the pattern of immunocompetent cells within the intestinal mucosa.
- These changes in immune cell distribution may contribute to gut barrier failure during sepsis.