Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to infection that can cause the body to attack its own organs. Researchers are looking closer at how this happens, specifically focusing on a toxin called LPS and a protein called HMGB1. They found that these two work together like a team to trigger a massive inflammatory response.
In the body, the protein HMGB1 can be released by nerves after an injury. Once outside the cells, it binds with the LPS toxin. This complex then enters cells where it breaks down membranes and activates specific enzymes called caspases. These enzymes are what drive the dangerous inflammation and blood clotting issues seen in sepsis patients.
While these findings help scientists understand the mechanics of how sepsis damages the body, it is important to note that this research is currently in the early stages. No treatments targeting HMGB1 have been used in actual clinical practice yet. These results are based on preclinical models, meaning they are not yet ready for use in human patients.
