Decreased hepatic glutathione levels in septic shock. Predisposition of hepatocytes to oxidative stress: an experimental approach
G. A. Keller, R. Barke, J. T. Harty, E. Humphrey and R. L. Simmons
Intracellular metabolite glutathione, existing in either its reduced (GSH)
or oxidized states, is crucial for the protection of any cell against an
oxidative stress or injury. Significant depletion of intracellular levels
of GSH predisposes cells to an oxidative injury. We have investigated the
level of hepatic GSH during the early course of sepsis in a physiologically
well-characterized septic-sheep model. Following six hours of sepsis, which
was characterized by hypotension, hypoxemia, and granulocytopenia, the
level of intrahepatic GSH was significantly reduced compared with baseline
levels. There was no reduction after two hours of sepsis. Hepatic GSH
levels in control animals were unchanged compared with baseline levels.
These findings suggest that the liver may be more susceptible to an
oxidative stress in septic patients.
