Time-Dependent Production of Endothelium-Related Biomarkers is Affected Differently in Hemorrhagic and Septic Shocks

Shock is associated with inflammation-induced endothelial dysfunction. The aim of this study was to determine time-dependent alteration of blood biomarkers related to endothelial function in hemorrhagic and septic shocks. Hemorrhagic shock was induced by bleeding the animals. A cecal ligation and incision model was used to induce septicemia. Resuscitation was carried out by infusion of lactated Ringer’s solution. Resuscitation extended survival time in both shock groups. Blood pressure increased by resuscitation in the hemorrhagic shock but not in the septic shock. While hemorrhage caused a decrease in plasma levels of nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels were increased. Only NO and TAC levels at the late phase were reversed by resuscitation. On the other hand, plasma levels of NO, ADMA, and TAC were increased by septicemia and resuscitation did not alter the septicemia-induced increase. These results indicate that blood biomarkers related to endothelial function were differentially affected by hemorrhage and septicemia. The time scale of biomarker production should be taken into consideration for the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to these life-threatening diseases.