Inflammatory and chemotactic signals of the brainstem solitary tract mediate the morphine exacerbation of impaired reflex chronotropism in septic rats.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The interplay between opioid analgesics and sepsis in intensive care units (ICUs) is multifaceted, often amplifying immune dysregulation and adversely affecting cardiovascular outcomes.

Aim

We investigated whether morphine, the prototypical opioid, influences sepsis-induced impairment of arterial baroreceptor function and the accompanying inflammation.

Methods

Rats were implanted with indwelling catheters in femoral vessels and intracisternal (i.c.) space, and sepsis was induced using the cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) technique. The baroreceptor-mediated control of chronotropic activity was assessed 24 h later in awake rats using the vasoactive method, which relates blood pressure changes caused by i.v. phenylephrine (PE) or sodium nitroprusside (SNP)

SUBMITTER: Abdelnaby M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12855068 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature