Early potassium channel blockade improves sepsis-induced organ damage and cardiovascular dysfunction.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

There is increasing evidence that potassium channels are involved in the cardiovascular dysfunction of sepsis. This evidence was obtained after the systemic inflammation, cardiovascular dysfunction and organ damage had developed. Here we have studied the consequences of early interference with potassium channels on development of sepsis.

Experimental approach

Sepsis was induced by caecal ligation and puncture (CLP) or sham surgery in Wistar rats. Four hours after surgery, animals received tetraethylammonium (TEA; a non-selective potassium channel blocker) or glibenclamide (a selective ATP-sensitive potassium channel blocker). Twenty-four hours after surgery, inflammatory, biochemical, haemodynamic parameters and survival were evaluated.

Key results<

SUBMITTER: Sordi R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3144541 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature