Frontiers in Neuroscience (Apr 2024)

IL-1β, the first piece to the puzzle of sepsis-related cognitive impairment?

  • Qing Zhu,
  • Li Wan,
  • Han Huang,
  • Zhimin Liao

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2024.1370406
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 18

Abstract

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Sepsis is a leading cause of death resulting from an uncontrolled inflammatory response to an infectious agent. Multiple organ injuries, including brain injuries, are common in sepsis. The underlying mechanism of sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE), which is associated with neuroinflammation, is not yet fully understood. Recent studies suggest that the release of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) following activation of microglial cells plays a crucial role in the development of long-lasting neuroinflammation after the initial sepsis episode. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the recent literature on the molecular signaling pathways involved in microglial cell activation and interleukin-1β release. It also explores the physiological and pathophysiological role of IL-1β in cognitive function, with a particular focus on its contribution to long-lasting neuroinflammation after sepsis. The findings from this review may assist healthcare providers in developing novel interventions against SAE.

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