AMPK Activation Minimizes Organ Injury by Decreasing Endothelial Activation and Inflammation

Abstract

Sepsis is a leading cause of death worldwide. Mortality in sepsis is most often attributed to the development of multiple organ dysfunction and consequent organ failure. Previous studies in hemorrhagic shock have demonstrated that activation of AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK) decreases inflammation and protects against organ injury. In sepsis, inflammation-mediated endothelial activation has been associated with severity of disease. Thus, the objective of this study was to show that AMPK activation regulates inflammation, endothelium activation and protects against organ injury in sepsis.