W Jachymek
Published:
GICID: 01.3001.0000.3028
Available language versions: en pl
Issue: Postepy Hig Med Dosw 1995; 49 (1)
Abstract
Endotoxins are responsible for initiation of septic shock which increases the number of fatalities in Gram-negative bacteremia among hospital patients. The mortality from septic shock is still high despite recent developments in antibiotic therapy. These substances are unable to decrease the level of free lipopolysaccharides in the bloodstream. Another approach to the treatment and prevention of septicaemia involves stimulation of an immune response against LPS. It was found that immunization with core structures of endotoxin conjugated with proteins protected animals against infections and endotoxic shock. Anticonjugate sera are of great interest because they are directed against common parts of LPS and therefore could have cross-reactive and cross-protective potencies towards many Gram-negative rods.