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01-04-2006 | Original Article

The vagal nerve as a link between the nervous and immune system in the instance of polymicrobial sepsis

Authors: Wolfram Kessler, Tobias Traeger, Alexandra Westerholt, Friederike Neher, Marlene Mikulcak, Antje Müller, Stefan Maier, Claus-Dieter Heidecke

Published in: Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery | Issue 2/2006

Abstract

Background

The role of the vagal nerve in the autonomic nervous system is widely well known. Recently, an additional function was revealed serving as a connector between the nervous and immune system. This connection is called the “cholinergic inflammatory pathway.” Through stimulation of the acetylcholine receptors located upon the macrophages, the “unspecific” immune system can be directly influenced.

Methods

The vagal nerve was completely transected directly posterior to its passage through the diaphragm. The effect of complete vagotomy was analyzed using a murine model of polymicrobial peritonitis (colon ascendens stent peritonitis, CASP). Survival and clinical course of vagotomized or sham-operated mice were analyzed in the CASP model.

Results

After CASP surgery, vagotomy led to a significantly increased mortality (64.7%) in comparison to sham-vagotomized animals (34%). No difference in the bacterial load of various tissues (lung, liver, spleen, blood, lavage fluid, and kidney) from septic animals with or without vagotomy was observed. Vagotomized animals reveal elevated serum cytokine levels (TNF, IL-6, IL-10, and MCP-1) 20 h after the induction of polymicrobial peritonitis.

Conclusion

The vagal nerve is therefore an important modulator of the immune system.

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Title: The vagal nerve as a link between the nervous and immune system in the instance of polymicrobial sepsis
Authors: Wolfram Kessler
Tobias Traeger
Alexandra Westerholt
Friederike Neher
Marlene Mikulcak
Antje Müller
Stefan Maier
Claus-Dieter Heidecke
Publication date: 01-04-2006
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery / Issue 2/2006
Print ISSN: 1435-2443
Electronic ISSN: 1435-2451
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00423-006-0031-y

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

The vagal nerve as a link between the nervous and immune system in the instance of polymicrobial sepsis

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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