Protective effect of ginkgolide B on CLP-induced septic mice

AIM: To explore the potential immunomodulatory effect and related mechanisms of ginkgolide B (GB), a known potent antagonist of platelet-activating factor receptor, on the pathological process of sepsis. METHODS: The experimental sepsis model was established by a standardized procedure of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). GB treatment (10 μg/g) was given to the CLP mice 30 min before the surgical operation. The survival rate was observed every day for 3 weeks. The NO content in the serum was measured by Griess assay. The ROS level in the blood was determined by H₂DCFDA labeling and flow cytometry. The inflammatory cytokines in the serum were detected by the methods of cytometric bead array and ELISA. RESULTS: The thymus and spleen of the mice significantly atrophied, and the levels of NO, ROS, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10 in the blood were dramatically elevated 24 h after CLP. All the CLP mice died in 5 days. However, treatment with 10 μg/g of GB 30 min before CLP remarkably enhanced the indexes of thymus and spleen, inhibited the storm of inflammatory mediators and cytokines, and improved the survival rate. CONCLUSION: The protective effect of GB on CLP-induced experimental sepsis indicates that GB is a candidate of natural immunomodulator for treating sepsis.