Cell therapy in shock: a reasonable prospect or a lost cause?

Almost any insult to the body can set in motion the sequence of physiologic and biochemical changes leading to shock. In the absence of effective treatment widespread disruption of the body's biological mechanisms inevitably follows. This review will describe some of cellular and subcellular disturbances associated with the shock syndrome, the persistence of which lead to (multiple) organ failure. Current views as to the mechanisms of these disturbances will be outlined with particular reference to hypovolemic and septic shock. Finally, an indication will be given of the relevant therapeutic implications, now and in the future.