Mouse models of resuscitated shock

Studies of sepsis in humans are difficult because the seriousness of the disease mandates immediate intervention and because the heterogeneity of patient presentations imposes substantial limitations on clinical trials. Thus, animal models have been used extensively to explore the pathogenesis of sepsis and to generate preclinical data for therapeutic interventions. Translation of findings in these models into therapeutic strategies has been difficult, in part because of limitations in preclinical models and in part to imperfect understanding of the pathophysiology of sepsis. It is important to use an animal model that reproduces the relevant physiologic parameters present in patients with septic shock. Mouse models are particularly useful for the dissection of molecular mechanisms of disease because of the proliferation of transgenic strains. We have developed a murine model of sepsis with fluid resuscitation and antibiotic treatment that reproduces the timing and degree of mortality seen in patients with septic shock. Using continuous micromanometric pressure monitoring and assessment of hemodynamics by echocardiography, we have shown that this model reproduces the hyperdynamic state with hypotension seen in clinical sepsis. The use of transgenic technology in appropriate murine models is exciting because of its potential to permit significant strides in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of sepsis, multiple organ system failure, and other diseases. The use of reproducible and clinically relevant mouse models of shock is essential for delineation of pathogenetic mechanisms and for initial testing of potential therapeutic strategies.