Is the Course of a Sepsis Influenced by the Mobilization of Endothelial Progenitor Cells?

Sepsis is a common disease in intensive care. Under this condition the body reacts to infection by injuring its own tissues and organs which leads to high mortality rates. Until now reliable methods to identify vulnerable patients are lacking, and treatment is mainly directed at its symptoms. The research presented in this video focuses on endothelial progenitor cells, a cell type derived from the bone marrow circulating in the bloodstream. Their role in the development and healing of sepsis is examined. In order to quantify the endothelial progenitor cells the study uses flow cytometry – a biotechnological method to sort and count cells. The findings indicate that VEGF, the vascular endothelial growth factor, correlates with a positive outcome of the disease. These results specifying the role of endothelial progenitor cells can lead to new therapies for sepsis and may in the future also help to cure various diseases such as diabetes or strokes by supporting endothelial regeneration of the body itself.