ABSTRACT
To investigate the dynamic changes in ICE mRNA expression and its relationship with IL 18 and IFN ? mRNA expression in thermal injured rats.The animals were subjected to a 30% total body surface area full thickness thermal injury,and fluid resuscitation was performed at 6 hours post burn. 54 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups: normal controls,30% Ⅲ degree burn group,and selective decontamination of the digestive tract (SDD) treatment group. P1asma endotoxin was measured by limulus amebocyte lysate test,and tissue ICE,IL 18 and IFN ? mRNA expression was determined by reverse transcription po1ymerase chain reaction (RT PCR).The results showed that ICE, IL 18, and IFN ? mRNA expression significantly increased in the intestine,1ung,liver,and kidney at 2 hours,peaking at 8 hours,and a high level was maintained till 24 hours. However, treatment with SDD could lower plasma endotoxin levels,and markedly inhibit ICE, IL 18, and IFN ? mRNA expression in various organs.This study suggests that major burns can lead to a marked elevation of tissue ICE mRNA expression in vital organs,which might be associated with IL 18 and IFN ?mRNA expression induced by gut derived endotoxemia.