The nature and significance of microparticles in sepsis

Abstract

Septic shock is characterized by an increased inflammatory process and cell activation, inducing membrane remodeling and microparticles release. These microparticles represent a pool of bioactive effectors that modulate several vascular functions. During sepsis, host-pathogen interaction leads to the generation of endothelium-, platelet-, erythrocyteand granulocyte-derived procoagulant microparticles, which could promote cellular inflammatory response, apoptosis and activate coagulation. Microparticles may also potentially participate in the arterial dysfunction characterizing septic shock, tune the oxidative status and induce procoagulant state. This review focuses on the latest knowledge accumulated on the biological properties of microparticles in order to identify their involvement in sepsis or septic shock, as a biological marker or potential therapeutic target.