Effects of phosphodiesterase inhibition in sepsis

Acute endotoxemia is characterized by the activation of inflammatory cells and the generation of proinflammatory cytokines. This systemic inflammatory response can lead to tissue damage, and end-organ injury. Modulation of this enhanced inflammatory response may have clinical utility in the treatment of sepsis. Pentoxifylline (PTX), a non-specific phosphodiesterase inhibitor, has been studied for its immunomodulatory effects. PTX has previously been shown to decrease neutrophil activation, cytokine production, and organ injury following sepsis and hemorrhagic shock. This review will outline the research done in our laboratory to elucidate the effects of phosphodiesterase inhibition with PTX in endotoxemia.