Conclusions
Our data suggest that sub-toxic doses of VAV have a protective effect against LPS-induced septic shock that may be mediated, at least partially, by the modulated TNF-alpha activity. This study thus offers a novel therapeutic approach for the attenuation of bacteremia-induced septic shock through the modulation of a central pro-inflammatory cytokine by VAV vaccination in mammals.
Methods
Adult male Wistar rats were given either VAV vaccine or saline, and 2 weeks later half of each group received LPS challenge, and were monitored for mortality, cytokine levels, blood count and chemistry.
Results
Survival rate was significantly higher in venom-treated, compared to non-vaccinated septic rats. Furthermore, VAV treatment significantly reduced LPS-associated TNF-alpha and LDH, without affecting IL-6 and IL-10 levels, and modified WBC and platelet counts. Conclusions: Our data suggest that sub-toxic doses of VAV have a protective effect against LPS-induced septic shock that may be mediated, at least partially, by the modulated TNF-alpha activity. This study thus offers a novel therapeutic approach for the attenuation of bacteremia-induced septic shock through the modulation of a central pro-inflammatory cytokine by VAV vaccination in mammals.