Experimental Hemorrhagic Shock Research Articles

Effects of remote ischemic preconditioning on early markers of intestinal injury in experimental hemorrhage in rats

The maintenance of intestinal integrity and barrier function under conditions of restricted oxygen availability is crucial to avoid bacterial translocation and local inflammation. Both lead to secondary diseases after hemorrhagic shock and might increase morbidity and mortality after surviving the initial event. Monitoring of the intestinal integrity especially in the early course of critical illness remains challenging. Since microcirculation and mitochondrial respiration are main components of the terminal stretch of tissue oxygenation, the evaluation of microcirculatory and mitochondrial variables could identify tissues at risk during hypoxic challenges, indicate an increase of intestinal injury, and improve our understanding of regional pathophysiology during acute hemorrhage. Furthermore, improving intestinal microcirculation or mitochondrial respiration, e.g. by remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) that was reported to exert a sufficient tissue protection in various tissues and was linked to mediators with vasoactive properties could maintain intestinal integrity. In this study, postcapillary oxygen saturation (µHbO2), microvascular flow index (MFI) and plasmatic d-lactate concentration revealed to be early markers of intestinal injury in a rodent model of experimental hemorrhagic shock. Mitochondrial function was not impaired in this experimental model of acute hemorrhage. Remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) failed to improve intestinal microcirculation and intestinal damage during hemorrhagic shock.

Microcirculatory effects of rewarming in experimental hemorrhagic shock.

Rewarming is a recommended therapy during the resuscitation of hypothermic patients with hemorrhagic shock. In experimental models, however, it increases inflammatory response and mortality. Although microcirculation is potential target of inflammation, the microvascular effects of rewarming during the resuscitation of hemorrhagic shock have not been studied. Our goal was to assess the systemic and microcirculatory effects of an increase in core temperature (T°) during the retransfusion of hemorrhagic shock in sheep. Our hypothesis was that rewarming could hamper microcirculation. In anesthetized and mechanically ventilated sheep, we measured systemic, intestinal, and renal hemodynamics and oxygen transport. O2 consumption (VO2) and respiratory quotient were measured by indirect calorimetry. Cortical renal, intestinal villi and sublingual microcirculation were assessed by IDF-videomicroscopy. After basal measurements, hemorrhagic shock was induced and T° was reduced to ~33°C. After 1h of shock and hypothermia, blood was retransfused and Ringer lactate solution was administered to prevent arterial hypotension. In the control group (n=12), T° was not modified, while in the intervention (rewarming) group, it was elevated ~3°C. Measurements were repeated after 1h. During shock, both groups showed similar systemic and microvascular derangements. After retransfusion, VO2 remained decreased compared to baseline in both groups, but was lower in the control compared to the rewarming group. Perfused vascular density has a similar behavior in both groups. Compared to baseline, it remained reduced in peritubular (control vs. rewarming group, 13.8 [8.7-17.5] vs. 15.7 [10.1-17.9] mm/mm2, PNS) and villi capillaries (14.7 [13.6-16.8] vs. 16.3 [14.2-16.9] mm/mm2, PNS), and normalized in sublingual mucosa (19.1 [16.0-20.3] vs. 16.6 [14.7-17.2] mm/mm2, PNS). This is the first experimental study assessing the effect of rewarming on systemic, regional, and microcirculatory perfusion in hypothermic hemorrhagic shock. We found that a 3°C increase in T° neither improved nor impaired the microvascular alterations that persisted after retransfusion. In addition, sublingual mucosa was less susceptible to reperfusion injury than villi and renal microcirculation.

Resveratrol therapy improves liver function via estrogen-receptors after hemorrhagic shock in rats.

BackgroundResveratrol may improve organ dysfunction after experimental hemorrhagic or septic shock, and some of these effects appear to be mediated by estrogen receptors. However, the influence of resveratrol on liver function and hepatic microcirculation after hemorrhagic shock is unknown, and a presumed mediation via estrogen receptors has not been investigated in this context.MethodsMale Sprague-Dawley rats (200-300g, n = 14/group) underwent hemorrhagic shock for 90 min (MAP 35±5 mmHg) and were resuscitated with shed blood and Ringer’s solution. Animals were treated intravenously with vehicle (1% EtOH), resveratrol (0.2 mg/kg), the unselective estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182,780 (0.05 mg/kg) or resveratrol + ICI 182,780 prior to retransfusion. Sham-operated animals did not undergo hemorrhage but were treated likewise. After 2 hours of reperfusion, liver function was assessed either by plasma disappearance rate of indocyanine green (PDRICG) or evaluation of hepatic perfusion and hepatic integrity by intravital microscopy, serum enzyme as well as cytokine levels.ResultsCompared to vehicle controls, administration of resveratrol significantly improved PDRICG, hepatic perfusion index and hepatic integrity after hemorrhagic shock. The co-administration of ICI 182,780 completely abolished the protective effect only with regard to liver function.ConclusionsThis study shows that resveratrol may improve liver function and hepatocellular integrity after hemorrhagic shock in rats; estrogen receptors mediate these effects at least partially.

Effects of norepinephrine infusion on cerebral energy metabolism during experimental haemorrhagic shock

BackgroundThe use of norepinephrine in the case of life-threatening haemorrhagic shock is well established but widely discussed. The present study was designed to compare the effects of early norepinephrine treatment vs. no treatment on cerebral energy metabolism during haemorrhagic shock.MethodsTwelve pigs were subjected to haemorrhagic shock, 4 in the control group and 8 in the norepinephrine (NE) group. Following a 60 min baseline period haemorrhagic shock was achieved by bleeding all animals to a pre-defined mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) of approximately 40 mm Hg. When mean arterial pressure had decreased to 40 mmHg NE infusion started in the treatment group. After 90 min, NE infusion stopped, and all pigs were resuscitated with autologous blood and observed for 2.5 h. During the experiment cerebral tissue oxygenation (PbtO2) was monitored continuously and variables reflecting cerebral energy metabolism (glucose, lactate, pyruvate, glutamate, glycerol) were measured by utilizing intracerebral microdialysis.ResultsAll 12 pigs completed the protocol. NE infusion resulted in significantly higher MAP (p < 0.001). During the shock period lactate/pyruvate (LP) ratio group increased from 20 (15–29) to 66 (38–82) (median (IQR)) in the control group but remained within normal limits in the NE group. The significant increase in LP ratio in the control group remained after resuscitation. After induction of shock PbtO2 decreased markedly in the control group and was significantly lower than in the NE group during the resuscitation phase.ConclusionNE infusion during haemorrhagic shock improved cerebral energy metabolism compared with no treatment.

Therapeutically Targeting Microvascular Leakage in Experimental Hemorrhagic SHOCK: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Microvascular leakage is proposed as main contributor to disturbed microcirculatory perfusion following hemorrhagic shock and fluid resuscitation, leading to organ dysfunction and unfavorable outcome. Currently, no drugs are available to reduce or prevent microvascular leakage in clinical practice. We therefore aimed to provide an overview of therapeutic agents targeting microvascular leakage following experimental hemorrhagic shock and fluid resuscitation. PubMed, EMBASE.com, and Cochrane Library were searched in January 2021 for preclinical studies of hemorrhagic shock using any therapeutic agent on top of standard fluid resuscitation. Primary outcome was vascular leakage, defined as edema, macromolecule extravasation, or glycocalyx degradation. Drugs were classified by targeting pathways and subgroup analyses were performed per organ. Forty-five studies, published between 1973 and 2020, fulfilled eligibility criteria. The included studies tested 54 different therapeutics mainly in pulmonary and intestinal vascular beds. Most studies induced trauma besides hemorrhagic shock. Forty-four therapeutics (81%) were found effective to reduce microvascular leakage, edema formation, or glycocalyx degradation in at least one organ. Targeting oxidative stress and apoptosis was the predominantly effective strategy (SMD: -2.18, CI [-3.21, -1.16], P < 0.0001). Vasoactive agents were found noneffective in reducing microvascular leakage (SMD: -0.86, CI [-3.07, 1.36], P = 0.45). Pharmacological modulation of pathways involved in cell metabolism, inflammation, endothelial barrier regulation, sex hormones and especially oxidative stress and apoptosis were effective in reducing microvascular leakage in experimental hemorrhagic shock with fluid resuscitation. Future studies should investigate whether targeting these pathways can restore microcirculatory perfusion and reduce organ injury following hemorrhagic shock. CRD42018095432.

The Role of Nitric Oxide in the Efficacy of Adenosine, Lidocaine, and Magnesium Treatment for Experimental Hemorrhagic Shock in Rats

BackgroundNitric oxide (NO) plays multiple roles regulating the central nervous, cardiovascular, and immune systems.ObjectiveOur aim was to investigate the role of NO in the efficacy of hypertonic saline (7.5% sodium chloride [NaCl]) adenosine, lidocaine, and magnesium (ALM) to improve mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate following hemorrhagic shock.MethodsOne hundred one male Sprague-Dawley rats (mean [SD] weight = 425 [6] g) were randomly assigned to 20 groups (groups of 4–8 rats each). Hemorrhagic shock (MAP < 40 mm Hg) was induced by 20-minute pressure-controlled bleeding (∼40% blood volume), and the animal was left in shock (MAP = 35-40 mm Hg) for 60 minutes. The NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor L-NAME was administered with a 0.3-mL bolus of different combinations of 7.5% NaCl ALM active ingredients and hemodynamic parameters were monitored for 60 minutes. A number of specific NOS and NO inhibitors were tested.ResultsWe found that 7.5% NaCl ALM corrected MAP after hemorrhagic shock. In contrast, the addition of L-NAME to 7.5% NaCl ALM led to a rapid fall in MAP, sustained ventricular arrhythmias, and 100% mortality. Saline controls receiving 7.5% NaCl with NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) showed improved MAP with no deaths. None of the specific NOS and NO inhibitors mimicked L-NAME's effect on ALM. The addition of inducible NOS inhibitor 1400W to 7.5% NaCl ALM failed to resuscitate, whereas the NO scavenger PTIO and the PI3K inhibitor wortmannin reduced MAP recovery during 60-minute resuscitation.ConclusionsThe ability of 7.5% NaCl ALM to resuscitate appears to be linked to 1 or more NO-producing pathways. Nonspecific NOS inhibition with L-NAME blocked ALM resuscitation and led to cardiovascular collapse. More studies are required to examine NO site-specific contributions to ALM resuscitation. (Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2022; 82:XXX–XXX)

Therapeutic Hypothermia Improves Long-Term Survival and Blunts Inflammation in Rats During Resuscitation of Hemorrhagic Shock.

We tested the hypothesis that therapeutic hypothermia (TH) improves survival and blunts inflammation in rats undergoing experimental hemorrhagic shock. Rats were randomized to TH (n = 16) or normothermia (n = 15). Hemorrhagic shock was induced by withdrawing blood to a fixed mean blood pressure (MBP) of 30 mmHg for 30 minutes followed by reinfusion of shed blood for the next 30 minutes. TH (target 32°C) was started at 5 minutes after MBP reached 30 mmHg and was maintained throughout blood volume resuscitation. In the normothermic control group, body temperature was maintained at 37°C during the procedure. Rats were allowed to recover for 6 weeks. TH significantly improved survival: 4 of 15 (26.7%) rats in the normothermic group and 11 of 16 (68.8%; p = 0.032) rats in the TH group survived 6 weeks. Recovery of MBP during the resuscitation phase was significantly improved and left ventricular fractional shortening was markedly increased in the TH group compared with the normothermic group. Brain infarction was observed in 3 of 4 surviving rats (75%) in normothermic group, and in only 1 of the 11 surviving rats (9%) in TH group. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was lower in TH group (0.20 ± 0.02) compared with the normothermic group (0.32 ± 0.03; p = 0.003). TH influenced the levels of blood gases and blood counts, favoring hypothermia over control. TH significantly improved long-term survival and blunted the inflammatory response in experimental hemorrhagic shock.

Therapeutic interventions to restore microcirculatory perfusion following experimental hemorrhagic shock and fluid resuscitation: A systematic review.

ObjectiveMicrocirculatory perfusion disturbances following hemorrhagic shock and fluid resuscitation contribute to multiple organ dysfunction and mortality. Standard fluid resuscitation is insufficient to restore microcirculatory perfusion; however, additional therapies are lacking. We conducted a systematic search to provide an overview of potential non‐fluid‐based therapeutic interventions to restore microcirculatory perfusion following hemorrhagic shock.MethodsA structured search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library was performed in March 2020. Animal studies needed to report at least one parameter of microcirculatory flow (perfusion, red blood cell velocity, functional capillary density).ResultsThe search identified 1269 records of which 48 fulfilled all eligibility criteria. In total, 62 drugs were tested of which 29 were able to restore microcirculatory perfusion. Particularly, complement inhibitors (75% of drugs tested successfully restored blood flow), endothelial barrier modulators (100% successful), antioxidants (66% successful), drugs targeting cell metabolism (83% successful), and sex hormones (75% successful) restored microcirculatory perfusion. Other drugs consisted of attenuation of inflammation (100% not successful), vasoactive agents (68% not successful), and steroid hormones (75% not successful).ConclusionImproving mitochondrial function, inhibition of complement inhibition, and reducing microvascular leakage via restoration of endothelial barrier function seem beneficial to restore microcirculatory perfusion following hemorrhagic shock and fluid resuscitation.

Effects of hypertonic saline replacement on colonic anastomosis in experimental hemorrhagic shock model in rats.

Inadequate intestinal perfusion resulting from hemorrhagic shock negatively affects wound healing. In this experimental study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of resuscitation with hypertonic saline on colonic anastomosis in rats with controlled hemorrhagic shock. A total of 24 male Wistar albino rats weighing between 200 and 250 g were used in this study. The rats were divided into four groups as: Control, hypotonic, isotonic, and hypertonic. Median laparotomy, colon resection, and colocolonic anastomosis were performed to the rats in the control group. After creating controlled hemorrhagic shock to rats in other three groups, resuscitation was achieved with hypotonic, isotonic, and hypertonic saline. After resuscitation, median laparotomy, colon resection, and colocolonic anastomosis were performed on rats in these three groups. On the 5th post-operative day, a median laparotomy was applied to the rats in all groups and anastomosis lines were evaluated. Anastomotic bursting pressure, tissue hydroxyproline level, and tissue fibrosis degree were compared between the groups. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of anastomotic bursting pressure, tissue hydroxyproline level, and tissue fibrosis degree (respectively; p=0.320, p=0.537, p>0.05). In rats with controlled hemorrhagic shock, resuscitation with hypertonic saline does not differ significantly from isotonic or hypotonic saline in terms of healing of colonic anastomosis.

Abstract 218: Therapeutic Hypothermia Alone and Combination With Preconditioning Blunt Inflammation in Experimental Hemorrhagic Shock

Background: Recent studies by our group indicate that preconditioning, therapeutic hypothermia (TH) and TH combined with preconditioning improved long-term survival during resuscitation of hemorrhagic shock. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a marker of inflammation associated with increased mortality in patients with severe hemorrhage shock. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of these three therapies on NLR level in rats with acute hemorrhagic shock. Methods and Results: In the preconditioning study, Sprague Dawley rats (both genders) were randomized to preconditioning (n=26) or control group (n=27); in the hypothermia study, rats were randomized to TH (n=16) or control group (n=15); in a combination study, rats were randomized to TH plus preconditioning (n=11) or control group (n=10). Rats were anesthetized with intraperitoneal Ketamine and xylazine. After heparinizing, hemorrhagic shock was induced by withdrawing blood to a fixed mean blood pressure (MBP) of 30 mmHg for 30 minutes and then shed blood was reinfused. Preconditioning was induced by 4 cycles of inflating small cuffs around the femoral arteries to 200 mmHg for 5 minutes, followed by 5-minute deflation of the cuffs prior to hemorrhagic shock. TH started at 5 minutes after MBP reached 30 mmHg. Core temperature was maintained at ~32 °C until blood volume was fully restored. In the control group, body temperature was maintained at ~ 37°C. Arterial blood samples were collected 1 hour after resuscitation. The NLR is an easily accessible biomarker, which is calculated by dividing the absolute neutrophil count by the absolute lymphocyte count. The NLR was significantly lower in TH group (0.20 ± 0.02) compared with the control group (0.32 ± 0.03; p=0.003). Similarly, the NLR level was significantly decreased in TH plus preconditioning group (0.19 ± 0.02) versus the control group (0.33 ± 0.02; p= 0.001). There was no difference in NLR level between the preconditioning group (0.41 ± 0.04) and the control group (0.41 ± 0.04; p=0.984). Conclusions: NLR is widely recognized inflammation marker associated with poor prognosis in severe hemorrhagic shock. TH alone and TH combined with preconditioning blunt the inflammation by decreasing the NLR level in experimental hemorrhagic shock.

Abstract 216: Therapeutic Hypothermia Alone and in Combination With Preconditioning Improves Long Term Survival During Resuscitation of Hemorrhagic Shock

Background: We investigated the effects of hypothermia treatment alone and in combination with experimental bilateral lower limb remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) in rats undergoing experimental hemorrhagic shock. Previously we showed that RIPC alone improved survival. Methods: In the hypothermia alone study, adult Sprague Dawley rats (both genders) were randomized to hypothermia (n=16) or control group (n=15); in a combination study, rats were randomized to hypothermia plus RIPC (n=11) or control group (n=10). Rats were anesthetized with intraperitoneal ketamine/xylazine. Therapeutic hypothermia (Thermosuit) was started at 5 minutes after mean blood pressure (MBP) reached 30 mmHg. Core temperature was maintained at ~ 32 °C until blood volume was fully restored. RIPC was induced by 4 cycles of inflating small bilateral pressure cuffs to 200 mmHg around the femoral arteries for 5 minutes, followed by 5 minute deflation of the cuffs prior to hemorrhagic shock. In the control group, body temperature was maintained at 37 °C during the procedure. Hemorrhagic shock was induced by withdrawing blood from the carotid artery. Target mean blood pressure of 30 mmHg was maintained for 30 minutes followed by reinfusion of shed blood within the next 30 min. Rats were allowed recovery and the primary endpoint was survival rate at 6 weeks. Results: In the setting of hypothermia alone, 4 of 15 (26.7 %) rats in the control group and 11 of 16 (68.8 %; p = 0.032) rats in the hypothermia group survived at 6 weeks. In the combination study, 1 of 10 (10 %) rats in the control group and 7 of 11 (63.6 %; p = 0.024) rats in the hypothermia plus RIPC group survived at 6 weeks. Kaplan Meier Survival Curves are shown in Fig1. Conclusions: Hypothermia alone and combination with RIPC significantly improved long term survival in rats subjected to hemorrhagic shock. Hypothermia and RIPC did not show survival rates greater than hypothermia alone.

Effect of Coagulation Factor Concentrates on Markers of Endothelial Cell Damage in Experimental Hemorrhagic Shock.

Plasma-based resuscitation showed protective effects on the endothelial glycocalyx compared with crystalloid resuscitation. There is paucity of data regarding the effect of coagulation factor concentrates (CFC) on the glycocalyx in hemorrhagic shock (HS). We hypothesized that colloid-based resuscitation supplemented with CFCs offers a therapeutic value to treat endothelial damage following HS. Eighty-four rats were subjected to pressure-controlled (mean arterial pressure (MAP) 30-35 mm Hg) and lab-guided (targeted cutoff: lactate >2.2. mmol/L and base deficit > 5.5 mmol/L) HS. Animals were resuscitated with fresh frozen plasma (FFP), human albumin (HA) or Ringer's lactate (RL) and RL or HA supplemented with fibrinogen concentrate (FC) or prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC). Serum epinephrine and the following markers of endothelial damage were assessed at baseline and at the end-of-observation (120 min after shock was terminated): syndecan-1, heparan sulfate, and soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (sVEGFR 1). Resuscitation with FFP had no effect on sVEGFR1 compared with crystalloid-based resuscitation (FFP: 19.3 ng/mL vs. RL: 15.9 ng/mL; RL+FC: 19.7 ng/mL; RL+PCC: 18.9 ng/mL; n.s.). At the end-of-observation, syndecan-1 was similar among all groups. Interestingly, HA+FC treated animals displayed the highest syndecan-1 concentration (12.07 ng/mL). Resuscitation with FFP restored heparan sulfate back to baseline (baseline: 36 ng/mL vs. end-of-observation: 36 ng/mL). The current study revealed that plasma-based resuscitation normalized circulating heparan sulfate but not syndecan-1. Co-administration of CFC had no further effect on glycocalyx shedding suggesting a lack of its therapeutic potential. VExperimental in vivo study.

Ultrasonographic Assessment of Caudal Vena Cava to Aorta Ratio as a Novel Endpoint in Hemorrhagic Shock Resuscitation in Dogs

Objective- The aim of this study was to assess ultrasonography-derived caudal vena cava to aorta ratio (CVC/Ao) as a novel endpoint in the resuscitation of experimental hemorrhagic shock in dogs. Design- Experimental study. Animals- Ten adult mongrel healthy dogs. Procedures- After induction of anesthesia (control assessments), hemorrhagic shock was induced by blood withdrawal to a mean arterial pressure of 40 to 50 mmHg within 30 minutes and then maintained in a hypovolemic situation for an additional 30 minutes (second and third stages of assessments). Afterward, the dogs were randomly assigned to two groups which received 20 ml/kg lactated Ringer's solution or 5 ml/kg Hydroxyethyl starch, in four consecutive 15 minutes intervals (fourth stage of assessments). One hour after the last resuscitation step, final ultrasonographic assessments were performed. Results- Hemorrhagic shock caused a significant decrease in the CVC and Ao diameters as well as the CVC/Ao (2.14 ± 0.28 cm, 0.85 ± 0.07 cm and 0.4 ± 0.06, respectively) (p<0.05). Following the fluid resuscitation, CVC/Ao increased and returned to pre-shock values in both groups. Conclusion and clinical relevance- Findings indicated that serial ultrasonographic assessment of the CVC/Ao can be a useful endpoint in the resuscitation of dogs with hemorrhagic shock.

Endogenous and Exogenous Melatonin Exposure Attenuates Hepatic MT1 Melatonin Receptor Protein Expression in Rat

Melatonin receptors are highly relevant for the hepatoprotective effects of the pineal hormone melatonin after experimental hemorrhagic shock in rats. In this study, we sought to determine the spatial expression pattern and a putative regulation of two melatonin receptors, membrane bound type 1 and 2 (MT1 and MT2), in the liver of rats. In a male rat model (Sprague Dawley) of hemorrhage and resuscitation, we investigated the gene expression and protein of MT1 and MT2 in rat liver by utilizing real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, a western blot analysis, and immunohistochemistry. Plasma melatonin content was measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Male rats underwent hemorrhage and were resuscitated with shed blood and a Ringer’s solution (n = 8 per group). After 90 min of hemorrhage, animals were given vehicle, melatonin, or ramelteon (each 1.0 mg/kg intravenously). Sham-operated controls did not undergo hemorrhage but were treated likewise. Plasma melatonin was significantly increased in all groups treated with melatonin and also after hemorrhagic shock. Only MT1, but not the MT2 messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and protein, was detected in the rat liver. The MT1 protein was located in pericentral fields of liver lobules in sham-operated animals. After hemorrhagic shock and treatment with melatonin or ramelteon, the hepatic MT1 protein amount was significantly attenuated in all groups compared to sham controls (50% reduction; p < 0.001). With respect to MT1 mRNA, no significant changes were observed between groups (p = 0.264). Our results indicate that both endogenous melatonin exposure from hemorrhagic shock, as well as exogenous melatonin and ramelteon exposure, may attenuate melatonin receptors in rat hepatocytes, possibly by means of desensitization.

Malate Protects the Kidneys From Hemorrhagic Shock-Induced Injury in an Experimental Rat Model

BackgroundIn the past, protective effects in terms of prolonged survival of malate-containing solutions were demonstrated in the treatment of experimental hemorrhagic shock (HS). The objective of the present study was to investigate malate's impact on the kidneys. Therefore, renal function and morphological and histological anomalies were examined. Materials and methodsMale Wistar rats were subjected to severe HS by dropping the mean arterial blood pressure to 25-30 mmHg. The depth was held for 60 min. Subsequently, reperfusion with Ringer's solution or a 10 mM malate-containing solution was performed both together with blood in a 2:1 relation, followed by an observation period of 150 min. ResultsCompared with the control group (Ringer's solution), malate increased diuresis and, thus, enhanced excretion of creatinine and urea. Shock-induced histopathological changes were reduced by malate administration. Renal hemorrhages in the straight proximal tubule and in the distal tubule were reduced and even significantly reduced in the proximal convoluted tubule. Malate significantly preserved the endothelial glycocalyx in the proximal tubule. Surprisingly, malate induced glucosuria in the absence of a significant renal dysfunction, morphological damage, or hyperglycemia. ConclusionsThe protective effect of malate observed in the treatment of severe HS in the rat may be explained by a certain protective effect of this substance for the kidney.

Resolvin D1 Attenuates the Organ Injury Associated With Experimental Hemorrhagic Shock.

To evaluate the potential changes in the plasma levels of resolvin D1 (RvD1) in patients with trauma and hemorrhage. Having found that trauma results in a profound reduction in plasma RvD1 in patients, we have then investigated the effects of RvD1 on the organ injury and dysfunction associated with hemorrhagic shock (HS) in the rat. HS is a common cause of death in trauma due to excessive systemic inflammation and multiple organ failure. RvD1 is a member of the resolvin family of pro-resolution mediators. Blood samples were drawn from critically injured patients (n = 27, ACITII-prospective observational cohort study) within 2 hours of injury for targeted liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. HS rats (removal of blood to reduce arterial pressure to 30 ± 2 mm Hg, 90 minutes, followed by resuscitation) were treated with RvD1 (0.3 or 1 μg/kg intravenous (i.v.)) or vehicle (n = 7). Parameters of organ injury and dysfunction were determined. Plasma levels of RvD1 (mg/dL) were reduced in patients with trauma+HS (0.17 ± 0.08) when compared with healthy volunteers (0.76 ± 0.25) and trauma patients (0.62 ± 0.20). In rats with HS, RvD1 attenuated the kidney dysfunction, liver injury, and tissue ischemia. RvD1 also reduced activation of the nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway and reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory proteins such as inducible nitric oxide synthase, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6. Plasma RvD1 is reduced in patients with trauma-HS. In rats with HS, administration of synthetic RvD1 on resuscitation attenuated the multiple organ failure associated with HS by a mechanism that involves inhibition of the activation of NF-κB.

Enteral Tranexamic Acid Decreases Proteolytic Activity in the Heart in Acute Experimental Hemorrhagic Shock.

The mechanisms for cardiac injury after hemorrhagic shock (HS) are unresolved. We hypothesize that remote organ damage can be caused by uncontrolled pancreatic proteolytic activity, as enteral protease inhibition improves outcomes in experimental HS. Uncontrolled proteolysis in the heart may disrupt cardiac metabolism and adrenergic control with subsequent deleterious outcomes. To test this hypothesis, the heart rate-pressure product (RPP) as an index of myocardial oxygen consumption and the levels of fatty acid transporter proteins CD36 and FATP6 as surrogates for metabolic activity in the heart were measured in rats subjected to experimental HS (n = 6/group) with and without the enteral protease inhibitor tranexamic acid (TXA). Plasma troponin I and heart fatty acid-binding protein (HFABP) concentrations were measured as indices of myocardial damage. Expression of the adrenergic receptors β1, α1D, and β2 was also measured in the heart to determine the possible effects of shock with and without enteral TXA on the adrenergic control of heart function. Hemorrhagic shock was induced by reduction in mean arterial blood pressure to 35 mm Hg for 2 hours before reperfusion of shed blood. The RPP was maintained in shocked animals treated enterally with TXA but not in those subjected to HS alone; this group also demonstrated decreased HFABP and plasma troponin I levels. Serine protease (trypsin, chymotrypsin, and elastase) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 activity was elevated in cardiac tissue and plasma after HS and abrogated by enteral TXA. Levels of CD36, FATP6, β1, α1D, and β2 were also increased after HS in cardiac tissue, and the increases were mitigated by TXA treatment. These results suggest that increased proteolytic activity may contribute to cardiac injury after HS. Enteral TXA prevents these changes, indicating a potential therapeutic option in the management of shock with resultant cardiac injury.

Abstract 186: Remote Limb Ischemic Preconditioning Improves Short and Long Term Survival and Maintains Intravascular Blood Volume During Resuscitation of Hemorrhagic Shock

Background: We further examined the protective effects of experimental bilateral lower limb remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) in rats undergoing experimental hemorrhagic shock. Methods: Sprague Dawley rats (both genders) were randomized into RIPC (n= 26) or control group (n= 27), and anesthetized with intraperitoneal ketamine/xylazine. RIPC was induced by 4 cycles of inflating small bilateral pressure cuffs to 200 mmHg around the femoral arteries for 5 minutes, followed by 5 minute deflation of the cuffs. Hemorrhagic shock was induced by withdrawing blood from the carotid artery. Target mean blood pressure of 30 mmHg was maintained for 30 minutes followed by reinfusion of shed blood within the next 30 min. Rats remained anesthetized for another 30 min before recovery; endpoints were survival at 72 hours and 6 weeks. Results: The % of estimated total blood volume withdrawn to maintain a level of 30 mmHg was similar in the RIPC group (41.7 ± 1.0 %) and control group (41.9 ± 1.0 %). Recovery of blood pressure during the early resuscitation phase was significantly improved in the RIPC group. The diastolic internal dimension of the left ventricle (echocardiogram), which indicates circulating intravascular blood volume, was significantly larger in the RIPC group at 1 hour after initiation of shed blood reinfusion (5.8 ± 0.1 mm) compared to 5.4 ± 0.1mm in the control group (p=0.04). Left ventricular fractional shortening was comparable between RIPC (50.9 ± 1.9 %) and control group (49.6 ± 1.8 %; p=0.64) at 1 hour after initiation of resuscitation. At 48 hours after shock, BUN was within normal range in the RIPC group (17.3 ± 1.2 mg/dl); but elevated in the control group (22.0 ± 1.7 mg/dl). At 72 hours after hemorrhagic shock injury, 6 of 27 (22.2 %) rats in the control group and 13 of 26 (50 %, p = 0.047) rats in the RIPC group survived. At 6 weeks, 5 of 27 (18.5 %) rats in the control group and 13 of 26 (50 %; p = 0.021) rats in the RIPC group survived. RIPC significantly increased survival rate at both 72 hours and 6 weeks. Conclusions: RIPC improved recovery of blood pressure and maintained more circulating intravascular blood volume in the early phase of resuscitation, improved BUN, and markedly and significantly improved short and long term survival in rats subjected to hemorrhagic shock.

Blood‐based biomarkers as early predictor of mortality in experimental hemorrhagic shock

BackgroundHemorrhagic shock remains a major cause of mortality and morbidity on the battle field. Appropriate use of blood‐based biomarkers is clinically important to manage patients and predict death versus survival in the early stage of hemorrhagic shock. In continuation of our previous study, blood‐based early biomarkers were tested in 94 rats undergoing hemorrhagic shock.MethodsSprague Dawley rats (both genders) were anesthetized with either intraperitoneal ketamine and xylazine or with Isoflurane. Rats were intubated and ventilated with room air. After heparinization, hemorrhagic shock was induced by withdrawing blood to a fixed mean blood pressure of 30 or 40 mmHg for 30 minutes, 35 minutes, 45 minutes, or 60 minutes and then the shed blood was reinfused. Arterial blood samples were collected 1–3 hours after resuscitation with shed blood. The rats were allowed to survive for 6 weeks.ResultsThe pH, bicarbonate (HCO3), oxygen saturation (SO2%), base excess and calcium levels were significantly lower in rats that died (n=63) versus survivors (n=31). Rats that died had significantly elevated anion gap, potassium, sodium and chloride levels compared to rats that survived (Table). PO2, PCO2, hematocrit, hemoglobin, glucose and lactate levels are comparable between rats that died versus survived.ConclusionsThe low pH, HCO3, SO2%, base excess and calcium coupled with high anion gap and high potassium, sodium and chloride levels may help predict long term prognosis in hemorrhagic shock.Support or Funding InformationThis work was supported by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs, through the Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program under Award NO. W81XWH‐16‐1‐0606. Opinions, interpretations, conclusions and recommendations are those of the author and are not necessarily endorsed by Department of Defense.This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.

Evaluation of the levels of cardiac troponin I as an end point in resuscitation of dogs with hemorrhagic shock

This study sought to assess the levels of cardiac troponin I, as a resuscitation end point, along with oxygen delivery (DO2) and oxygen consumption (VO2) during resuscitation of dogs with experimental hemorrhagic shock using lactated Ringer’s solution or 6% hydroxyethyl starch. After induction of anesthesia (control measurements), hemorrhagic shock was induced by rapid removal of blood to achieve a mean arterial pressure (MAP) of 40 to 50 mmHg within 30 minutes and then maintained in hypovolemic situation for additional 30 minutes (second and third stages of measurements). Afterward, the dogs were randomly assigned to two groups which received 20 ml/kg lactated Ringer’s solution or 5 ml/kg Hydroxyethyl starch, in four consecutive 15 minutes intervals (forth stage of measurements). One hour after the last resuscitation step, final measurements were performed. Hemorrhagic shock caused marked elevation in the levels of cTnI and reduction in DO2 and VO2 (p 0.05). The results of this study proved that cTnI can be evaluated for better monitoring during fluid therapy in hemorrhagic shock, as a novel resuscitation end point.