Objective: The present review summarises in vitro data on structure and function of the monocyte surface antigen CD14 and the lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) and discusses their role in the pathogenesis of sepsis and septic shock. Data Sources: Original papers and reviews on CD14, LBP and related topics from 1986 to 1998. Results: CD14 is the major receptor for Gram-negative bacterial lipopolysaccharide (Endotoxin, LPS). The acute phase protein LBP catalyses the binding of LPS or bacteria to CD14. Therefore, both proteins are important structures of the innate immune system responsible for recognition and combating bacterial infections. The CD14- and LBP-mediated interaction of LPS and/ or bacteria with monocytes/macrophages stimulates a cascade of inflammatory reactions which in clinical terms is called systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Under certain circumstances a SIRS may progress to septic shock and multi-organ failure. Conclusions: The potential value of CD14 and LBP as either target or drug for antiendotoxic or antibacterial therapy has been shown in a variety of animal models of sepsis and septic shock. However, it is not yet clear to what extent these approaches may be useful in the clinical situation of intensive care patients.

This content is only available via PDF.
1999
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
You do not currently have access to this content.