Yakugaku zasshi : Journal of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan
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Review
[Metabolic aspects of endotoxin as a model of septic shock--approached from oxidative stress].
Despite the remarkable progress in intensive care medicine, sepsis and shock continue to be major clinical problems in intensive care units. Septic shock may be associated with a toxic state initiated by the stimulation of monocytes by bacterial toxins such as endotoxin, which is released into the bloodstream. This study describes the role of oxidative stress in endotoxin-induced metabolic disorders. ⋯ Sho-saiko-to is one of the most frequently prescribed Kampo medicines and has primarily been used to treat chronic hepatitis. We report that Sho-saiko-to decreases the rh TNF-induced lethality in galactosamine-hypersensitized mice and protects mice against oxygen toxicity and Ca2+ overload in the cytoplasm or mitochondria during endotoxemia. We further suggest that Sho-saiko-to shows a suppressive effect on NO generation in macrophages stimulated with endotoxin and that it may be useful in improving endotoxin shock symptoms.