Synergistic Alleviation of Inflammatory Cytokine Storms in Sepsis Rats by Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound and Imipenem.

AIMS: This study aimed to investigate the effects of low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) combined with imipenem (IMI) on inflammatory responses and organ protection in septic rats.

RESULTS

The study involved 230 Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, with 80 used for survival analysis and 150 for sampling over 72 h. Histological examination (hematoxylin and eosin [H&E] staining) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that LIPUS combined with IMI significantly alleviated spleen tissue damage and reduced mitochondrial edema. Key inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and IL-6 were significantly decreased, while IL-10 levels increased in the LIPUS + IMI group (p < 0.05). The combined treatment also reduced the expression of cytokines, such as IL-1 receptor (IL-1R), nuclear factor kappa B p65 (NF-κB p65), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), and high mobility group protein box 1 (HMGB1), indicating a reduction in inflammation (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION AND INNOVATION: This study presents a novel approach by integrating LIPUS with IMI, providing a noninvasive and effective strategy to mitigate cytokine storms, optimize antibiotic use, and reduce organ damage in sepsis. The protective effects observed are primarily attributed to the inhibition of the IL-1R/NF-κB signaling pathway, which significantly improves survival outcomes in septic rats. This combined therapy has potential for enhancing sepsis treatment protocols.