Neuropeptides
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Calcitonin gene-related peptides (CGRP) is a 37 amino acids peptide that has a proliferative effect on human endothelial cells, and is therefore important for the formation of new vessels and wound healing. As indicated by in vitro and animal studies, CGRP is also a potent vasodilator for cutaneous, cerebral, coronary vessels, a bronchoconstrictor and endocrine regulator. Systemic CGRP increase in patients with soft tissue injuries, chronic illness and sepsis, indicates that CGRP may yet be an important peptides in chronic illness. ⋯ Furthermore, Elastase (a decisive marker for inflammation and infectious complications) was found to be higher in patients being pronounced in day 2 than in day 1 (day 1 [200 +/-136], day2 [139 +/-118]). Creatine kinase and myoglobin were measured and found to be notably higher in patients. These peptides may be yet another group of cytokines playing significant role in immunologic, inflammatory complications or wound healing in this group of patients.