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LPS-binding protein protects mice from septic shock caused by LPS or gram-negative bacteria

N Lamping1, R Dettmer, N W Schröder

  • 1Institut für Mikrobiologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Charité, Medizinische Fakultät der Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, D-10098, Berlin, Germany.

Insights

Acute phase concentrations of LPS-binding protein (LBP) protect against LPS and bacterial infection by inhibiting cytokine release and preventing organ failure. This suggests LBP acts as a physiological defense mechanism against infection, potentially benefiting humans with gram-negative peritonitis.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Microbiology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • LPS-binding protein (LBP) typically enhances host cell stimulation by bacterial LPS, potentially leading to septic shock.
  • Recent studies suggest LBP may also detoxify LPS in vitro by transferring it to HDL particles.
  • The primary in vivo function of LBP, particularly at acute phase concentrations, remained unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the biological activity of acute phase concentrations of recombinant murine LBP.
  • To determine the in vivo function of LBP in response to LPS and bacterial challenge.

Main Methods:

  • In vitro studies using a murine macrophage cell line treated with varying LBP concentrations.
  • In vivo studies involving intraperitoneal injection of LBP into mice subjected to LPS challenge, D-galactosamine sensitization, or bacteremia.
  • Assessment of LPS-induced TNF-alpha synthesis, cytokine release, hepatic failure, and mortality rates.

Main Results:

  • Acute phase concentrations of LBP inhibited LPS-induced TNF-alpha synthesis in macrophages, contrasting with low-dose LBP effects.
  • In vivo, LBP administration significantly reduced LPS-mediated cytokine release and prevented hepatic failure.
  • LBP treatment led to a decreased mortality rate in mice challenged with LPS and D-galactosamine, and in a bacteremia model.

Conclusions:

  • Acute phase LBP exhibits a protective effect against LPS and bacterial infection.
  • LBP may function as a physiological defense mechanism against infection.
  • These findings suggest potential beneficial effects of LBP in human gram-negative peritonitis.

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