Factor XII activation and inhibition in inflammation.

Biochemical observations during clinical sepsis using functional and immunological measurements of enzymes, cofactors and inhibitors of the kallikrein-kinin system indicate that activation of these proteases occur during hypotensive gram-negative septicemia and adult respiratory distress syndrome. Using animal models of septicemia, we demonstrated that protease inhibitors or neutralizing monoclonal antibodies to proteins of the contact system inhibit or prevent the formation of kallikrein and the decrease in kininogen. In addition, the irreversible phase of hypotension can be prevented and survival prolonged. Thus, bradykinin is one of the important mediators of hypotension. In contrast, the contact system plays little role in the associated DIC. In cardiopulmonary bypass, the formation of kallikrein leads to neutrophil degranulation and release of elastase. Selective inhibitors of kallikrein not only block its activation but play a predominant role in inhibiting elastase release.