Carbon dioxide attenuates pulmonary impairment resulting from hyperventilation

Altered ventilatory responses to hypercapnia-hypoxia challenges in a preclinical SUDEP model involve orexin neurons

Failure to recover from repeated hypercapnia and hypoxemia (HH) challenges caused by severe GCS and postictal apneas may contribute to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Our previous studies found orexinergic dysfunction contributes to respiratory abnormalities in a preclinical model of SUDEP, Kcna1-/- mice. Here, we developed two gas challenges consisting of repeated HH exposures and used whole body plethysmography to determine whether Kcna1-/- mice have detrimental ventilatory responses. Kcna1-/- mice exhibited an elevated ventilatory response to a mild repeated hypercapnia-hypoxia (HH) challenge compared to WT. Moreover, 71% of Kcna1-/- mice failed to survive a severe repeated HH challenge, whereas all WT mice recovered. We next determined whether orexin was involved in these differences. Pretreating Kcna1-/- mice with a dual orexin receptor antagonist rescued the ventilatory response during the mild challenge and all subjects survived the severe challenge. In ex vivo extracellular recordings in the lateral hypothalamus of coronal brain slices, we found reducing pH either inhibits or stimulates putative orexin neurons similar to other chemosensitive neurons; however, a significantly greater percentage of putative orexin neurons from Kcna1-/-mice were stimulated and the magnitude of stimulation was increased resulting in augmentation of the calculated chemosensitivity index relative to WT. Collectively, our data suggest that increased chemosensitive activity of orexin neurons may be pathologic in the Kcna1-/- mouse model of SUDEP, and contribute to elevated ventilatory responses. Our preclinical data suggest that those at high risk for SUDEP may be more sensitive to HH challenges, whether induced by seizures or other means; and the depth and length of the HH exposure could dictate the probability of survival.

Hypercapnia and its relationship with respiratory infections

INTRODUCTION

Hypercapnia is developed in patients with acute and/or chronic respiratory conditions. Clinical data concerning hypercapnia and respiratory infections interaction is limited.

AREAS COVERED

Currently, the relationship between hypercapnia and respiratory infections remains unclear. In this review, we summarize studies on the effects of hypercapnia on models of pulmonary infections to clarify the role of elevated CO2 in these pulmonary pathologies. Hypercapnia affects different cell types in the alveoli, leading to changes in the immune response. In vitro studies show that hypercapnia downregulates the NF-κβ pathway, reduces inflammation and impairs epithelial wound healing. While in vivo models show a dual role between short- and long-term effects of hypercapnia on lung infection. However, it is still controversial whether the effects observed under hypercapnia are pH dependent or not.

EXPERT OPINION

The role of hypercapnia is still a controversial debate. Hypercapnia could play a beneficial role in mechanically ventilated models, by lowering the inflammation produced by the stretch condition. But it could be detrimental in infectious scenarios, causing phagocyte dysfunction and lack of infection control. Further data concerning hypercapnia on respiratory infections is needed to elucidate this interaction.

Inhaled CO2 vs. Hypercapnia Obtained by Low Tidal Volume or Instrumental Dead Space in Unilateral Pulmonary Artery Ligation: Any Difference for Lung Protection?

Background

Unilateral ligation of the pulmonary artery (UPAL) induces bilateral lung injury in pigs undergoing controlled mechanical ventilation. Possible mechanisms include redistribution of ventilation toward the non-ligated lung and hypoperfusion of the ligated lung. The addition of 5% CO₂ to the inspiratory gas (FiCO₂) prevents the injury, but it is not clear whether lung protection is a direct effect of CO₂ inhalation or it is mediated by plasmatic hypercapnia. This study aims to compare the effects and mechanisms of FiCO₂vs. hypercapnia induced by low tidal volume ventilation or instrumental dead space.

Methods

Healthy pigs underwent left UPAL and were allocated for 48 h to the following: Volume-controlled ventilation (VCV) with V_T 10 ml/kg (injury, n = 6); VCV plus 5% FiCO₂ (FiCO₂, n = 7); VCV with V_T 6 ml/kg (low V_T, n = 6); VCV plus additional circuit dead space (instrumental V_D, n = 6). Histological score, regional compliance, wet-to-dry ratio, and inflammatory infiltrate were assessed to evaluate lung injury at the end of the study. To investigate the mechanisms of protection, we quantified the redistribution of ventilation to the non-ligated lung, as the ratio between the percentage of tidal volume to the right and to the left lung (V_TRIGHT/LEFT), and the hypoperfusion of the ligated lung as the percentage of blood flow reaching the left lung (Perfusion_LEFT).

Results

In the left ligated lung, injury was prevented only in the FiCO₂ group, as indicated by lower histological score, higher regional compliance, lower wet-to-dry ratio and lower density of inflammatory cells compared to other groups. For the right lung, the histological score was lower both in the FiCO₂ and in the low V_T groups, but the other measures of injury showed lower intensity only in the FiCO₂ group. V_TRIGHT/LEFT was lower and Perfusion_LEFT was higher in the FiCO₂ group compared to other groups.

Conclusion

In a model of UPAL, inhaled CO₂ but not hypercapnia grants bilateral lung protection. Mechanisms of protection include reduced overdistension of the non-ligated and increased perfusion of the ligated lung.

Hypercapnia from Physiology to Practice

Acute hypercapnic ventilatory failure is becoming more frequent in critically ill patients. Hypercapnia is the elevation in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO₂) above 45 mmHg in the bloodstream. The pathophysiological mechanisms of hypercapnia include the decrease in minute volume, an increase in dead space, or an increase in carbon dioxide (CO₂) production per sec. They generate a compromise at the cardiovascular, cerebral, metabolic, and respiratory levels with a high burden of morbidity and mortality. It is essential to know the triggers to provide therapy directed at the primary cause and avoid possible complications.

Optimizing Mechanical Ventilation in Refractory ARDS

Mechanical ventilation in patients with refractory acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) must provide lung protection. This is achieved by limiting tidal volume (VT) and plateau pressure (Pplat). With the current evidence available VT should be initially set around 6 mL per kg predicted body weight and PPlat maintained below 30 cmH₂O and monitored. Positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), which also contributes to lung protection, should be set > 12 cmH₂O, provided oxygenation gets improved, with same Pplat target. Recruitment maneuvers should be used with caution avoiding higher PEEP. Neuromuscular blockade should be started and prone position performed for sessions longer than 16 h. High frequency oscillation ventilation should be used in expert centers only if previous management failed to improve oxygenation.

Addition of 5% CO2 to Inspiratory Gas Prevents Lung Injury in an Experimental Model of Pulmonary Artery Ligation

Rationale: Unilateral ligation of the pulmonary artery may induce lung injury through multiple mechanisms, which might be dampened by inhaled CO2. Objectives: This study aims to characterize bilateral lung injury owing to unilateral ligation of the pulmonary artery in healthy swine undergoing controlled mechanical ventilation and its prevention by 5% CO2 inhalation and to investigate relevant pathophysiological mechanisms. Methods: Sixteen healthy pigs were allocated to surgical ligation of the left pulmonary artery (ligation group), seven to surgical ligation of the left pulmonary artery and inhalation of 5% CO2 (ligation + FiCO2 5%), and six to no intervention (no ligation). Then, all animals received mechanical ventilation with Vt 10 ml/kg, positive end-expiratory pressure 5 cm H2O, respiratory rate 25 breaths/min, and FiO2 50% (±FiCO2 5%) for 48 hours or until development of severe lung injury. Measurements and Main Results: Histological, physiological, and quantitative computed tomography scan data were compared between groups to characterize lung injury. Electrical impedance tomography and immunohistochemistry analysis were performed in a subset of animals to explore mechanisms of injury. Animals from the ligation group developed bilateral lung injury as assessed by significantly higher histological score, larger increase in lung weight, poorer oxygenation, and worse respiratory mechanics compared with the ligation + FiCO2 5% group. In the ligation group, the right lung received a larger fraction of Vt and inflammation was more represented, whereas CO2 dampened both processes. Conclusions: Mechanical ventilation induces bilateral lung injury within 48 hours in healthy pigs undergoing left pulmonary artery ligation. Inhalation of 5% CO2 prevents injury, likely through decreased stress to the right lung and antiinflammatory effects.

Hypercapnia in the critically ill: insights from the bench to the bedside

Carbon dioxide (CO2) has long been considered, at best, a waste by-product of metabolism, and at worst, a toxic molecule with serious health consequences if physiological concentration is dysregulated. However, clinical observations have revealed that 'permissive' hypercapnia, the deliberate allowance of respiratory produced CO2 to remain in the patient, can have anti-inflammatory effects that may be beneficial in certain circumstances. In parallel, studies at the cell level have demonstrated the profound effect of CO2 on multiple diverse signalling pathways, be it the effect from CO2 itself specifically or from the associated acidosis it generates. At the whole organism level, it now appears likely that there are many biological sensing systems designed to respond to CO2 concentration and tailor respiratory and other responses to atmospheric or local levels. Animal models have been widely employed to study the changes in CO2 levels in various disease states and also to what extent permissive or even directly delivered CO2 can affect patient outcome. These findings have been advanced to the bedside at the same time that further clinical observations have been elucidated at the cell and animal level. Here we present a synopsis of the current understanding of how CO2 affects mammalian biological systems, with a particular emphasis on inflammatory pathways and diseases such as lung specific or systemic sepsis. We also explore some future directions and possibilities, such as direct control of blood CO2 levels, that could lead to improved clinical care in the future.

Patterns and Impact of Arterial CO2 Management in Patients With Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Insights From the LUNG SAFE Study

BACKGROUND

Considerable variability exists regarding CO₂ management in early ARDS, with the impact of arterial CO₂ tension on management and outcomes poorly understood.

RESEARCH QUESTION

To determine the prevalence and impact of hypocapnia and hypercapnia on the management and outcomes of patients with early ARDS enrolled in the Large Observational Study to Understand the Global Impact of Severe Acute Respiratory Failure (LUNG SAFE) study, an international multicenter observational study.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Our primary objective was to examine the prevalence of day 1 and sustained (day 1 and 2) hypocapnia (Paco₂ < 35 mm Hg), normocapnia (Paco₂ 35-45 mm Hg), and hypercapnia (Paco₂ > 45 mm Hg) in patients with ARDS. Secondary objectives included elucidating the effect of CO₂ tension on ventilatory management and examining the relationship with ARDS outcome.

RESULTS

Of 2,813 patients analyzed, 551 (19.6%; 95%CI, 18.1-21.1) were hypocapnic, 1,018 (36.2%; 95% CI, 34.4-38.0) were normocapnic, and 1,214 (43.2%; 95% CI, 41.3-45.0) were hypercapnic, on day 1. Sustained hypocapnia was seen in 252 (9.3%; 95% CI, 8.2-10.4), sustained normocapnia in 544 (19.3%; 95% CI, 17.9-20.8), and sustained hypercapnia in 654 (24.1%; 95% CI, 22.5-25.7) patients. Hypocapnia was more frequent and severe in patients receiving noninvasive ventilation but also was observed in patients on controlled mechanical ventilation. Sustained hypocapnia was more frequent in middle-income countries, whereas sustained hypercapnia was more frequent in Europe. ARDS severity profile was highest in sustained hypercapnia, and these patients received more protective ventilation. No independent association was seen between arterial CO₂ and outcome. In propensity-matched analyses, the hospital mortality rate was 36% in both sustained normocapnic and hypercapnic patients (P = 1.0). ICU mortality was higher in patients with mild to moderate ARDS receiving sustained hypocapnia (38.1%) compared with normocapnia (27.1%).

INTERPRETATION

No evidence was found for benefit or harm with hypercapnia. Of concern, ICU mortality was higher with sustained hypocapnia in mild to moderate ARDS.

Pre-Treatment with Ten-Minute Carbon Dioxide Inhalation Prevents Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Lung Injury in Mice via Down-Regulation of Toll-Like Receptor 4 Expression

Various animal studies have shown beneficial effects of hypercapnia in lung injury. However, in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), there is controversial information regarding the effect of hypercapnia on outcomes. The duration of carbon dioxide inhalation may be the key to the protective effect of hypercapnia. We investigated the effect of pre-treatment with inhaled carbon dioxide on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung injury in mice. C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into a control group or an LPS group. Each LPS group received intratracheal LPS (2 mg/kg); the LPS groups were exposed to hypercapnia (5% carbon dioxide) for 10 min or 60 min before LPS. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissues were collected to evaluate the degree of lung injury. LPS significantly increased the ratio of lung weight to body weight; concentrations of BALF protein, tumor necrosis factor-α, and CXCL2; protein carbonyls; neutrophil infiltration; and lung injury score. LPS induced the degradation of the inhibitor of nuclear factor-κB-α (IκB-α) and nuclear translocation of NF-κB. LPS increased the surface protein expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). Pre-treatment with inhaled carbon dioxide for 10 min, but not for 60 min, inhibited LPS-induced pulmonary edema, inflammation, oxidative stress, lung injury, and TLR4 surface expression, and, accordingly, reduced NF-κB signaling. In summary, our data demonstrated that pre-treatment with 10-min carbon dioxide inhalation can ameliorate LPS-induced lung injury. The protective effect may be associated with down-regulation of the surface expression of TLR4 in the lungs.

The role of hypercapnia in acute respiratory failure

The biological effects and physiological consequences of hypercapnia are increasingly understood. The literature on hypercapnia is confusing, and at times contradictory. On the one hand, it may have protective effects through attenuation of pulmonary inflammation and oxidative stress. On the other hand, it may also have deleterious effects through inhibition of alveolar wound repair, reabsorption of alveolar fluid, and alveolar cell proliferation. Besides, hypercapnia has meaningful effects on lung physiology such as airway resistance, lung oxygenation, diaphragm function, and pulmonary vascular tree.

In acute respiratory distress syndrome, lung-protective ventilation strategies using low tidal volume and low airway pressure are strongly advocated as these have strong potential to improve outcome. These strategies may come at a price of hypercapnia and hypercapnic acidosis. One approach is to accept it (permissive hypercapnia); another approach is to treat it through extracorporeal means. At present, it remains uncertain what the best approach is.

Effects of hypothermia on lung inflammation in a rat model of meconium aspiration syndrome

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effects of hypothermia treatment on meconium-induced inflammation.

METHODS

Fifteen rats were instilled with human meconium (MEC, 1.5 mL/kg, 65 mg/mL) intratracheally and ventilated for 3 hours. Eight rats that were ventilated and not instilled with meconium served as a sham group. In MEC-hypothermia group, the body temperature was lowered to 33±0.5°C. Analysis of the blood gases, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid samples, and histological analyses of the lungs were performed.

RESULTS

The BAL fluid TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 concentrations were significantly higher in the MEC-hypothermia group than in the MEC-normothermia (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively) and sham-controlled groups (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Meconium-induced inflammatory cytokine production is affected by the body temperature control.

Age-Dependent Changes in the Pulmonary Renin-Angiotensin System Are Associated With Severity of Lung Injury in a Model of Acute Lung Injury in Rats

OBJECTIVES

A growing body of evidence suggests that age affects the main pathophysiologic mechanisms of the acute respiratory distress syndrome. This may imply the need for developing age-tailored therapies for acute respiratory distress syndrome. However, underlying molecular mechanisms governing age-related susceptibility first need to be unraveled. In a rat model of acute lung injury, we investigated whether age affects the balance between the two key enzymes of the pulmonary renin-angiotensin system, angiotensin-converting enzyme, and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2. We hypothesized that aging shifts the balance toward the lung injury-promoting angiotensin-converting enzyme, which may form an explanation for the differences in severity of lung injury between different age groups.

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized controlled animal study.

SETTING

University medical research laboratory.

SUBJECTS

Infant (15 ± 2 d), juvenile (37 ± 2 d), adult (4 ± 0.2 mo), and elderly (19.5 ± 0.5 mo) male RCCHan Wistar rats.

INTERVENTIONS

Lung injury was induced by intratracheal administration of lipopolysaccharide (5 mg/kg) and 4 hours of mechanical ventilation (15 mL/kg).

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

In lipopolysaccharide-exposed and mechanical ventilated rats, angiotensin-converting enzyme activity in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid increased 3.2-fold in elderly when compared with infants. No changes in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 activity were found. In addition, membrane-bound angiotensin-converting enzyme activity decreased. Together with the presence of angiotensin-converting enzyme-sheddase ADAM9 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain-containing protein 9) and an age-dependent increase in tumor necrosis factor-α, an activator of ADAM9, these results indicate increased shedding of angiotensin-converting enzyme in the alveolar compartment, thereby shifting the balance toward the injurious pathway. This imbalance was associated with an increased inflammatory mediator response and more lung injury (wet-to-dry ratio and histology) in elderly rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing age is associated with an imbalance of the pulmonary renin-angiotensin system, which correlates with aggravated inflammation and more lung injury. These changes might form the ground for new therapeutic strategies in terms of dosing and effectiveness of renin-angiotensin system-modulating agents for treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Hypercapnic acidosis attenuates pulmonary epithelial stretch-induced injury via inhibition of the canonical NF-κB pathway

BACKGROUND

Hypercapnia, with its associated acidosis (HCA), is a consequence of respiratory failure and is also seen in critically ill patients managed with conventional "protective" ventilation strategies. Nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), a pivotal transcription factor, is activated in the setting of injury and repair and is central to innate immunity. We have previously established that HCA protects against ventilation-induced lung injury in vivo, potentially via a mechanism involving inhibition of NF-κB signaling. We wished to further elucidate the role and mechanism of HCA-mediated inhibition of the NF-κB pathway in attenuating stretch-induced injury in vitro.

METHODS

Initial experiments examined the effect of HCA on cyclic stretch-induced inflammation and injury in human bronchial and alveolar epithelial cells. Subsequent experiments examined the role of the canonical NF-κB pathway in mediating stretch-induced injury and the mechanism of action of HCA. The contribution of pH versus CO2 in mediating this effect of HCA was also examined.

RESULTS

Pulmonary epithelial high cyclic stretch (22 % equibiaxial strain) activated NF-κB, enhanced interleukin-8 (IL-8) production, caused cell injury, and reduced cell survival. In contrast, physiologic stretch (10 % strain) did not activate inflammation or cause cell injury. HCA reduced cyclic mechanical stretch-induced NF-κB activation, attenuated IL-8 production, reduced injury, and enhanced survival, in bronchial and alveolar epithelial cells, following shorter (24 h) and longer (120 h) cyclic mechanical stretch. Pre-conditioning with HCA was less effective than when HCA was applied after commencement of cell stretch. HCA prevented the stretch-induced breakdown of the NF-κB cytosolic inhibitor IκBα, while IκBα overexpression "occluded" the effect of HCA. These effects were mediated by a pH-dependent mechanism rather than via CO2 per se.

CONCLUSIONS

HCA attenuates adverse mechanical stretch-induced epithelial injury and death, via a pH-dependent mechanism that inhibits the canonical NF-κB activation by preventing IκBα breakdown.

Effect of Therapeutic Hypercapnia on Inflammatory Responses to One-lung Ventilation in Lobectomy Patients

BACKGROUND

One-lung ventilation (OLV) can result in local and systemic inflammation. This prospective, randomized trial was to evaluate the effect of therapeutic hypercapnia on lung injury after OLV.

METHOD

Fifty patients aged 20 to 60 yr undergoing lobectomy were randomly provided with air or carbon dioxide (partial pressure of carbon dioxide: 35 to 45 mmHg or 60 to 70 mmHg). Peak pressure, plateau pressure, and lung compliance were recorded. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and blood samples were collected. Adverse events were monitored. The primary outcome was the concentration of BALF tumor necrosis factor, and the secondary outcomes were serum cytokine concentrations.

RESULTS

The BALF tumor necrosis factor was lower in the carbon dioxide group than in the air group (median [range], 51.1 [42.8 to 76.6] vs. 71.2 [44.8 to 92.7]; P = 0.034). Patients in the carbon dioxide group had lower concentrations of serum and BALF interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, and IL-8, but higher serum concentrations of IL-10, accompanied by reduced numbers of cells and neutrophils as well as lower concentrations of protein in the BALF. Also, patients in the carbon dioxide group had lower peak (mean ± SD, 22.2 ± 2.9 vs. 29.8 ± 4.6) and plateau pressures (20.5 ± 2.4 vs. 27.1 ± 2.9), but higher dynamic compliance (46.6 ± 5.8 vs. 38.9 ± 6.5). Furthermore, patients in the carbon dioxide group had higher postoperation oxygenation index values. Ten patients experienced slightly increased blood pressure and heart rate during OLV in the carbon dioxide group.

CONCLUSION

Under intravenous anesthesia, therapeutic hypercapnia inhibits local and systematic inflammation and improves respiratory function after OLV in lobectomy patients without severe complications.

Comparison of the effects of moderate and severe hypercapnic acidosis on ventilation-induced lung injury

Background

We have proved that hypercapnic acidosis (a PaCO₂ of 80-100 mmHg) protects against ventilator-induced lung injury in rats. However, there remains uncertainty regarding the appropriate target PaCO₂ or if greater CO₂ “doses” (PaCO₂ > 100 mmHg) demonstrate this effect. We wished to determine whether severe acute hypercapnic acidosis can reduce stretch-induced injury, as well as the role of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in the effects of acute hypercapnic acidosis.

Methods

Fifty-four rats were ventilated for 4 hours with a pressure-controlled ventilation mode set at a peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) of 30 cmH₂O. A gas mixture of carbon dioxide with oxygen (FiCO₂ = 4-5%, FiCO₂ = 11-12% or FiCO₂ = 16-17%; FiO₂ = 0.7; balance N₂) was immediately administered to maintain the target PaCO₂ in the NC (a PaCO₂ of 35-45 mmHg), MHA (a PaCO₂ of 80-100 mmHg) and SHA (a PaCO₂ of 130-150 mmHg) groups. Nine normal or non-ventilated rats served as controls. The hemodynamics, gas exchange and inflammatory parameters were measured. The role of NF-κB pathway in hypercapnic acidosis-mediated protection from high-pressure stretch injury was then determined.

Results

In the NC group, high-pressure ventilation resulted in a decrease in PaO₂/FiO₂ from 415.6 (37.1) mmHg to 179.1 (23.5) mmHg (p < 0.001), but improved by MHA (379.9 ± 34.5 mmHg) and SHA (298.6 ± 35.3 mmHg). The lung injury score in the SHA group (7.8 ± 1.6) was lower than the NC group (11.8 ± 2.3, P < 0.05) but was higher than the MHA group (4.4 ± 1.3, P < 0.05). Compared with the NC group, after 4 h of high pressure ventilation, the MHA and SHA groups had decreases in MPO activity of 67% and 33%, respectively, and also declined the levels of TNF-α (58% versus 72%) and MIP-2 (76% versus 60%) in the BALF. Additionally, both hypercapnic acidosis groups reduced stretch–induced NF-κB activation (p < 0.05) and significantly decreased lung ICAM-1 expression (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Moderate hypercapnic acidosis (PaCO₂ maintained at 80-100 mmHg) has a greater protective effect on high-pressure ventilation-induced inflammatory injury. The potential mechanisms may involve alterations in NF-κB activity.

Hypercapnic acidosis confers antioxidant and anti-apoptosis effects against ventilator-induced lung injury

Hypercapnic acidosis may attenuate ventilator-induced lung oxidative stress injury and alveolar cell apoptosis, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. We examined the effects of hypercapnic acidosis on the role of apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), which activates the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 cascade in both apoptosis and oxidative reactions, in high-pressure ventilation stimulated rat lungs. Rats were ventilated with a peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) of 30 cmH2O for 4 h and randomly given FiCO2 to achieve normocapnia (PaCO2 at 35-45 mm Hg) or hypercapnia (PaCO2 at 80-100 mm Hg); normally ventilated rats with PIP of 15 cmH2O were used as controls. Lung injury was quantified by gas exchange, microvascular leaks, histology, levels of inflammatory cytokines, and pulmonary oxidative reactions. Apoptosis through the ASK1-JNK/p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade in type II alveolar epithelial cells (AECIIs) were evaluated by examination of caspase-3 activation. The results showed that injurious ventilation caused significant lung injury, including deteriorative oxygenation, changes of histology, and the release of inflammatory cytokines. In addition, the high-pressure mechanical stretch also induced apoptosis and caspase-3 activation in the AECIIs. Hypercapnia attenuated these responses, suppressing the ASK1 signal pathways with its downstream kinase phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and JNK, and caspase-3 activation. Thus, hypercapnia can attenuate cell apoptosis and oxidative stress damage in rat lungs during injurious ventilation, at least in part, due to the suppression of the ASK1-JNK/p38 MAPK pathways.

Intensive buffering can keep pH above 7.2 for over 4 h during apnea: an experimental porcine study

BACKGROUND

Ventilation with low tidal volumes reduces mortality in acute respiratory distress syndrome. A further reduction of tidal volumes might be beneficial, and it is known that apneic oxygenation (no tidal volumes) with arteriovenous CO(2) removal can keep acid-base balance and oxygenation normal for at least 7 h in an acute lung injury model. We hypothesized that adequate buffering might be another approach and tested whether tris-hydroxymethyl aminomethane (THAM) alone could keep pH at a physiological level during apneic oxygenation for 4 h.

METHODS

Six pigs were anesthetized, muscle relaxed, and normoventilated. The lungs were recruited, and apneic oxygenation as well as administration of THAM, 20 mmol/kg/h, was initiated. The experiment ended after 270 min, except one that was studied for 6 h.

RESULTS

Two animals died before the end of the experiment. Arterial pH and arterial carbon dioxide tension (PaCO(2) ) changed from 7.5 (7.5, 7.5) to 7.3 (7.2, 7.3) kPa, P < 0.001 at 270 min, and from 4.5 (4.3, 4.7) to 25 (22, 28) kPa, P < 0.001, respectively. Base excess increased from 5 (3, 6) to 54 (51, 57) mM, P < 0.001. Cardiac output and arterial pressure were well maintained. The pig, which was studied for 6 h, had pH 7.27 and PaCO(2) 27 kPa at that time.

CONCLUSION

With intensive buffering using THAM, pH can be kept in a physiologically acceptable range for 4 h during apnea.

Recurrent recruitment manoeuvres improve lung mechanics and minimize lung injury during mechanical ventilation of healthy mice

INTRODUCTION

Mechanical ventilation (MV) of mice is increasingly required in experimental studies, but the conditions that allow stable ventilation of mice over several hours have not yet been fully defined. In addition, most previous studies documented vital parameters and lung mechanics only incompletely. The aim of the present study was to establish experimental conditions that keep these parameters within their physiological range over a period of 6 h. For this purpose, we also examined the effects of frequent short recruitment manoeuvres (RM) in healthy mice.

METHODS

Mice were ventilated at low tidal volume V(T) = 8 mL/kg or high tidal volume V(T) = 16 mL/kg and a positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) of 2 or 6 cm H(2)O. RM were performed every 5 min, 60 min or not at all. Lung mechanics were followed by the forced oscillation technique. Blood pressure (BP), electrocardiogram (ECG), heart frequency (HF), oxygen saturation and body temperature were monitored. Blood gases, neutrophil-recruitment, microvascular permeability and pro-inflammatory cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and blood serum as well as histopathology of the lung were examined.

RESULTS

MV with repetitive RM every 5 min resulted in stable respiratory mechanics. Ventilation without RM worsened lung mechanics due to alveolar collapse, leading to impaired gas exchange. HF and BP were affected by anaesthesia, but not by ventilation. Microvascular permeability was highest in atelectatic lungs, whereas neutrophil-recruitment and structural changes were strongest in lungs ventilated with high tidal volume. The cytokines IL-6 and KC, but neither TNF nor IP-10, were elevated in the BAL and serum of all ventilated mice and were reduced by recurrent RM. Lung mechanics, oxygenation and pulmonary inflammation were improved by increased PEEP.

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrent RM maintain lung mechanics in their physiological range during low tidal volume ventilation of healthy mice by preventing atelectasis and reduce the development of pulmonary inflammation.

Activation of nicotinic cholinergic receptors prevents ventilator-induced lung injury in rats

Respiratory distress syndrome is responsible for 40 to 60 percent mortality. An over mortality of about 10 percent could result from additional lung injury and inflammation due to the life-support mechanical ventilation, which stretches the lung. It has been recently demonstrated, in vitro, that pharmacological activation of the alpha 7 nicotinic receptors (α7-nAChR) could down regulate intracellular mediators involved in lung cell inflammatory response to stretch. Our aim was to test in vivo the protective effect of the pharmacological activation of the α7-nAChR against ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). Anesthetized rats were ventilated for two hours with a high stretch ventilation mode delivering a stroke volume large enough to generate 25-cmH₂O airway pressure, and randomly assigned to four groups: pretreated with parenteral injection of saline or specific agonist of the α7-nAChR (PNU-282987), or submitted to bilateral vagus nerve electrostimulation while pre-treated or not with the α7-nAChR antagonist methyllycaconitine (MLA). Controls ventilated with a conventional stroke volume of 10 mL/kg gave reference data. Physiological indices (compliance of the respiratory system, lung weight, blood oxygenation, arterial blood pressure) and lung contents of inflammatory mediators (IL-6 measured by ELISA, substance P assessed using HPLC) were severely impaired after two hours of high stretch ventilation (sham group). Vagal stimulation was able to maintain the respiratory parameters close to those obtained in Controls and reduced lung inflammation except when associated to nicotinic receptor blockade (MLA), suggesting the involvement of α7-nAChR in vagally-mediated protection against VILI. Pharmacological pre-treatment with PNU-282987 strongly decreased lung injury and lung IL-6 and substance P contents, and nearly abolished the increase in plasmatic IL-6 levels. Pathological examination of the lungs confirmed the physiological differences observed between the groups. In conclusion, these data suggest that the stimulation of α7-nAChR is able to attenuate VILI in rats.

Poloxamer 188 facilitates the repair of alveolus resident cells in ventilator-injured lungs

RATIONALE

Wounded alveolus resident cells are identified in human and experimental acute respiratory distress syndrome models. Poloxamer 188 (P188) is an amphiphilic macromolecule shown to have plasma membrane-sealing properties in various cell types.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate whether P188 (1) protects alveolus resident cells from necrosis and (2) is associated with reduced ventilator-induced lung injury in live rats, isolated perfused rat lungs, and scratch and stretch-wounded alveolar epithelial cells.

METHODS

Seventy-four live rats and 18 isolated perfused rat lungs were ventilated with injurious or protective strategies while infused with P188 or control solution. Alveolar epithelial cell monolayers were subjected to scratch or stretch wounding in the presence or absence of P188.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

P188 was associated with fewer mortally wounded alveolar cells in live rats and isolated perfused lungs. In vitro, P188 reduced the number of injured and necrotic cells, suggesting that P188 promotes cell repair and renders plasma membranes more resilient to deforming stress. The enhanced cell survival was accompanied by improvement in conventional measures of lung injury (peak airway pressure, wet-to-dry weight ratio) only in the ex vivo-perfused lung preparation and not in the live animal model.

CONCLUSIONS

P188 facilitates plasma membrane repair in alveolus resident cells, but has no salutary effects on lung mechanics or vascular barrier properties in live animals. This discordance may have pathophysiological significance for the interdependence of different injury mechanisms and therapeutic implications regarding the benefits of prolonging the life of stress-activated cells.

Metabolic acidosis may be as protective as hypercapnic acidosis in an ex-vivo model of severe ventilator-induced lung injury: a pilot study

Background

There is mounting experimental evidence that hypercapnic acidosis protects against lung injury. However, it is unclear if acidosis per se rather than hypercapnia is responsible for this beneficial effect. Therefore, we sought to evaluate the effects of hypercapnic (respiratory) versus normocapnic (metabolic) acidosis in an ex vivo model of ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI).

Methods

Sixty New Zealand white rabbit ventilated and perfused heart-lung preparations were used. Six study groups were evaluated. Respiratory acidosis (RA), metabolic acidosis (MA) and normocapnic-normoxic (Control - C) groups were randomized into high and low peak inspiratory pressures, respectively. Each preparation was ventilated for 1 hour according to a standardized ventilation protocol. Lung injury was evaluated by means of pulmonary edema formation (weight gain), changes in ultrafiltration coefficient, mean pulmonary artery pressure changes as well as histological alterations.

Results

HPC group gained significantly greater weight than HPMA, HPRA and all three LP groups (P = 0.024), while no difference was observed between HPMA and HPRA groups regarding weight gain. Neither group differ on ultrafiltration coefficient. HPMA group experienced greater increase in the mean pulmonary artery pressure at 20 min (P = 0.0276) and 40 min (P = 0.0012) compared with all other groups. Histology scores were significantly greater in HP vs. LP groups (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

In our experimental VILI model both metabolic acidosis and hypercapnic acidosis attenuated VILI-induced pulmonary edema implying a mechanism other than possible synergistic effects of acidosis with CO2 for VILI attenuation.

Bench-to-bedside review: hypercapnic acidosis in lung injury--from 'permissive' to 'therapeutic'

Modern ventilation strategies for patients with acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome frequently result in hypercapnic acidosis (HCA), which is regarded as an acceptable side effect ('permissive hypercapnia'). Multiple experimental studies have demonstrated advantageous effects of HCA in several lung injury models. To date, however, human trials studying the effect of carbon dioxide per se on outcome in patients with lung injury have not been performed. While significant concerns regarding HCA remain, in particular the possible unfavorable effects on bacterial killing and the inhibition of pulmonary epithelial wound repair, the potential for HCA in attenuating lung injury is promising. The underlying mechanisms by which HCA exerts its protective effects are complex, but dampening of the inflammatory response seems to play a pivotal role. After briefly summarizing the physiological effects of HCA, a critical analysis of the available evidence on the potential beneficial effects of therapeutic HCA from in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo lung injury models and from human studies will be reviewed. In addition, the potential concerns in the clinical setting will be outlined.

Bench-to-bedside review: carbon dioxide

Carbon dioxide is a waste product of aerobic cellular respiration in all aerobic life forms. PaCO2 represents the balance between the carbon dioxide produced and that eliminated. Hypocapnia remains a common - and generally underappreciated - component of many disease states, including early asthma, high-altitude pulmonary edema, and acute lung injury. Induction of hypocapnia remains a common, if controversial, practice in both adults and children with acute brain injury. In contrast, hypercapnia has traditionally been avoided in order to keep parameters normal. More recently, advances in our understanding of the role of excessive tidal volume has prompted clinicians to use ventilation strategies that result in hypercapnia. Consequently, hypercapnia has become increasingly prevalent in the critically ill patient. Hypercapnia may play a beneficial role in the pathogenesis of inflammation and tissue injury, but may hinder the host response to sepsis and reduce repair. In contrast, hypocapnia may be a pathogenic entity in the setting of critical illness. The present paper reviews the current clinical status of low and high PaCO2 in the critically ill patient, discusses the insights gained to date from studies of carbon dioxide, identifies key concerns regarding hypocapnia and hypercapnia, and considers the potential clinical implications for the management of patients with acute lung injury.

Ventilator-induced inflammatory response in lipopolysaccharide-exposed rat lung is mediated by angiotensin-converting enzyme

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) mediates the ventilator-induced inflammatory response in healthy lungs via angiotensin II (Ang II). A rat model was used to examine the role of ACE and Ang II in the inflammatory response during mechanical ventilation of preinjured (ie, lipopolysaccharide [LPS]-exposed) lungs. When indicated, rats were pretreated with the ACE inhibitor captopril and/or intratracheal administration of LPS. The animals were ventilated for 4 hours with moderate pressure amplitudes. Nonventilated animals served as controls. ACE activity and levels of Ang II and inflammatory mediators (interleukin-6, Cytokine-induced Neutrophil Chemoattractant (CINC)-3, interleukin-1beta, and interleukin-10) were determined in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). The localization of ACE and Ang II type 1 receptor in lung tissue was determined by immunohistochemistry. The role of the Ang II pathway was assessed by using its receptor antagonist Losartan. Mechanical ventilation of LPS-exposed animals increased ACE activity and levels of inflammatory mediators in BALF compared with ventilated nonexposed and LPS-exposed nonventilated animals. Blocking ACE by captopril attenuated the lung inflammatory response. Furthermore, increased ACE activity in BALF was accompanied by increased levels of Ang II and enhanced expression of its receptor on alveolar cells. Blocking the Ang II receptor attenuated the inflammatory mediator response to a larger extent than by blocking ACE. In conclusion, during mechanical ventilation ACE, via Ang II, mediates the inflammatory response of both healthy and preinjured lungs.

Does hypercapnia ameliorate hyperoxia-induced lung injury in neonatal rats?

Therapeutic hypercapnia (TH), an intentional inhalation of CO(2), has been shown to improve pulmonary function in certain models of lung injury. We tested the null hypothesis that TH does not improve hyperoxic lung injury in neonatal rats. The prospective, randomized study was set at Research laboratory in Children's Hospital. Forty-five newborn rats were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 15/group), and exposed to 96 h of normoxia (FiO(2) = 0.21), hyperoxia (FiO(2) > 0.98), and TH (FiO(2) = 0.95, FiCO(2) = 0.05). Lung histology, wet-weight to dry-weight ratio, and concentrations of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1beta, IL-6, TNF-alpha, and IL-10) were used to evaluate pulmonary damage. Using a scale of 0-4, the total scores for lungs hypercellularity, inflammation, and hemorrhage was significantly increased from a median value of 1.5 in normoxia to 2.5 in hyperoxia (P < 0.05) and 3.0 with TH (P < 0.001, nonparametric ANOVA). The interstitial space relative to the alveolar space, as a measure of hypercellularity, was increased by 18% during hyperoxia and by 44% with TH compared with normoxia. TH significantly increased the size of the interstitial space by 22% compared with hyperoxia (P < 0.001). The lung wet-weight to dry-weight ratio was increased by 10% in both hyperoxic groups (P < 0.001). Both hyperoxic groups showed significant reductions in the concentration of IL-1beta compared with normoxia (P < 0.001), whereas the ratio of IL-1beta to IL-10 was significantly decreased, indicating an anti-inflammatory trend. TH does not prevent histological manifestations of hyperoxic lung injury in spontaneously breathing neonatal rats and may worsen the outcome.

Hyperventilation versus standard ventilation for infants in postoperative care for congenital heart defects with pulmonary hypertension

PURPOSE

In infants undergoing surgery for cardiac defects with left-to-right shunt, a hyperventilation strategy has been applied to prevent pulmonary hypertensive crisis (PHC). Hyperventilation with a large tidal volume and/or higher airway pressure, however, may be detrimental to the lung. This randomized study compared the effects of hyperventilation versus standard ventilation.

METHODS

We enrolled 22 infants with a preoperative pulmonary-to-systemic blood pressure ratio of more than 0.7. Hyperventilation, with a tidal volume of 10-12 ml x kg(-1) to keep Pa(CO2) between 30 and 35 mmHg, was randomly applied in 11 patients for 16 h or more. The other 11 patients were randomly assigned to standard ventilation, with a 6- to 8- ml x kg(-1) tidal volume.

RESULTS

The peak inspiratory pressure was higher (20 +/- 3 vs 18 +/- 2 cmH2O; P = 0.018), and Pa(CO2) (34 +/- 5 vs 42 +/- 7 mmHg; P = 0.003) and positive end-expiratory pressure (3 +/- 0 vs 5 +/- 0; P < 0.0001) were significantly lower in the hyperventilation than in the standard ventilation group. The Pa(CO2)/inspiratory fraction of oxygen Pa(CO2) ratio decreased from 244 +/- 160 mmHg at the onset of postoperative ventilation, to 177 +/- 96 mmHg at 24 h (P = 0.038) in the hyperventilation group, versus a decrease from 240 +/- 89 to 220 +/- 97 mmHg in the standard ventilation group not significant (NS). Serum interleukin (IL)-6 level, measured at 24 h postoperatively, was significantly lower (P = 0.02) in the standard ventilation than in the hyperventilation group, suggesting an attenuated postoperative systemic inflammatory response. A single patient in each group developed PHC.

CONCLUSION

Hyperventilation may cause lung injury and systemic inflammation in infants with pulmonary hypertension undergoing corrective heart surgery.

Effects of chronic hypercapnia in the neonatal mouse lung and brain

BACKGROUND

Permissive hypercapnia is increasingly utilized in the care of premature infants to prevent bronchopulmonary dysplasia. In a previous investigation, we described gene expression changes in the neonatal mouse lung exposed to chronic hypercapnia that might contribute to lung protection and accelerated maturation. However, it is unknown whether chronic hypercapnia increases alveolar formation, nor if it has detrimental effects in other developing organs such as the brain.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether chronic hypercapnia accelerates early alveolar formation and increases neuronal cell injury in the developing mouse lung and brain, respectively.

DESIGN

Mouse pups were exposed to 8% CO(2) + 21% O(2) starting at postnatal day (P) 2 until P7. Control animals were maintained in room air. Animals were sacrificed at P4 or P7, and lungs and brains were excised and analyzed.

RESULTS

Exposure to 8% CO(2) resulted in an increased expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-sma) which localized to the tips of developing alveolar buds, and also an increased number of alveolar buds at P7. Importantly, hypercapnic animals also demonstrated evidence of increased TUNEL-positive cells in the brain.

CONCLUSIONS

Exposure to chronic hypercapnia may lead to early initiation of alveolar budding in the neonatal mouse, but may also lead to increased TUNEL-positive cells in the developing brain.

The effects of CO2 on cytokine concentrations in endotoxin-stimulated human whole blood

OBJECTIVES

Hypercapnia is known to modulate inflammation in lungs. However, the effect of hypocapnia and hypercapnia on blood cytokine production during sepsis is not well understood. We hypothesized that CO2 modulates ex vivo inflammatory cytokine production during endotoxin stimulation. To test this hypothesis, we measured the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in endotoxin-stimulated human whole blood cultures under hypercapnic, normocapnic, and hypocapnic conditions.

DESIGN

Prospective randomized study.

SETTING

Basic research laboratory.

SUBJECTS

Ten male and 10 female volunteers.

INTERVENTIONS

Venous blood samples, taken from volunteers were cultured at 37 degrees C, under hypocapnic (2% CO2), normocapnic (5% CO2), and hypercapnic (7% CO2) conditions, with and without endotoxin stimulation. After 24 hrs of incubation, each culture's supernatant was analyzed for tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1beta, interleukin-6, interleukin-10, and interferon-gamma concentrations by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were analyzed using nonparametric repeated measures of analysis of variance followed by Dunn's multiple comparisons test. Analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction was used to compare gender differences in cytokine concentrations. The Pearson test was used to estimate correlation between hydrogen ion and individual cytokine concentrations.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Concentrations of the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1beta and of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 under hypercapnic condition were significantly decreased (p < 0.05, 0.01, and 0.001, respectively) for both genders when compared with either normocapnic or hypocapnic conditions. Concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-1beta were significantly higher in men. In women, concentrations of interleukin-6 were significantly decreased under hypercapnic condition when compared with hypocapnic condition. An inverse relationship was found between hydrogen ion concentration and concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-10.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that CO2 can affect the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines after ex vivo stimulation with endotoxin.

Ventilation strategies and adjunctive therapy in severe lung disease

Respiratory failure caused by severe lung disease is a common reason for admission to the pediatric and neonatal intensive care units. Efforts to decrease morbidity and mortality have fueled investigations into innovative methods of ventilation, kinder gentler ventilation techniques, pharmacotherapeutic adjuncts, and extracorporeal life support modalities. This article discusses the rationale for and experience with some of these techniques.

Effects of overinflation on procollagen type III expression in experimental acute lung injury

Introduction

In acute lung injury (ALI), elevation of procollagen type III (PC III) occurs early and has an adverse impact on outcome. We examined whether different high-inflation strategies of mechanical ventilation (MV) in oleic acid (OA) ALI alter regional expression of PC III.

Methods

We designed an experimental, randomized, and controlled protocol in which rats were allocated to two control groups (no injury, recruited [alveolar recruitment maneuver after tracheotomy without MV; n = 4 rats] and control [n = 5 rats]) or four injured groups (one exposed to OA only [n = 10 rats] and three OA-injured and ventilated). The three OA-injured groups were ventilated for 1 hour according to the following strategies: LVHP-S (low volume-high positive end-expiratory pressure [PEEP], supine; n = 10 rats, tidal volume [V_T] = 8 ml/kg, PEEP = 12 cm H₂O), HVLP-S (high volume-low PEEP, supine; n = 10 rats, V_T = 20 ml/kg, PEEP = 5 cm H₂O), and HVLP-P (high volume-low PEEP, prone; n = 10 rats). Northern blot analysis for PC III and interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β) and polymorphonuclear infiltration index (PMI) counting were performed in nondependent and dependent regions. Regional differences between groups were assessed by two-way analysis of variance after logarithmic transformation and post hoc tests.

Results

A significant interaction for group and region effects was observed for PC III (p = 0.012) with higher expression in the nondependent region for HVLP-S and LVHP-S, intermediate for OA and HVLP-P, and lower for control (group effect, p < 0.00001, partial η² = 0.767; region effect, p = 0.0007, partial η² = 0.091). We found high expression of IL-1β (group effect, p < 0.00001, partial η² = 0.944) in the OA, HVLP-S, and HVLP-P groups without regional differences (p = 0.16). PMI behaved similarly (group effect, p < 0.00001, partial η² = 0.832).

Conclusion

PC III expression is higher in nondependent regions and in ventilatory strategies that caused overdistension. This response was partially attenuated by prone positioning.

Hypocapnic alkalosis enhances oxidant-induced apoptosis of human alveolar epithelial type II cells

Apoptosis of alveolar epithelial type II (AEC-II) cells induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) contributes to extensive alveolar damage during acute lung injury. Hypercapnic acidosis and hypocapnic alkalosis are known to modulate ROS-mediated lung damage. This study assessed the effects of acid-base balance disturbances on hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced apoptosis of the AEC-II-like human cell line A549, which was cultured under different conditions of pH and CO2 tension (normal pH and CO2, hypercapnic acidosis, metabolic acidosis, hypocapnic alkalosis and metabolic alkalosis). H2O2-induced apoptosis was assessed by a dye-uptake bioassay and induction of caspase activity, which were quantified using analytical digital photomicroscopy. Acidosis or alkalosis of the culture medium alone did not induce A549 cell apoptosis. Hypocapnic alkalosis significantly increased H2O2-induced apoptosis and caspase activation of A549 cells. Metabolic alkalosis non-significantly increased H2O2-induced A549 cell apoptosis and caspase activation. These data suggest that hypocapnic alkalosis intensifies oxidative-induced apoptosis of alveolar epithelial cells.

Hypercapnic acidosis and mortality in acute lung injury*

OBJECTIVE

We tested the hypothesis that hypercapnic acidosis is associated with reduced mortality rate in patients with acute lung injury independent of changes in mechanical ventilation.

DESIGN

Secondary analysis of randomized clinical trial data using hypothesis-driven multivariate logistic regression.

SETTING

Randomized, multiple-center trial (n = 861) comparing 12 mL/kg to 6 mL/kg predicted body weight tidal volumes previously published by the National Institutes of Health Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) Network.

PATIENTS

Acute lung injury patients enrolled in a randomized, multiple-center trial (n = 861).

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for 28-day mortality rate associated with hypercapnic acidosis defined as day 1 pH <7.35 and Pa(CO2) >45 mm Hg were 0.14 (95% CI 0.03-0.70, p = .016) in the 12 mL/kg predicted body weight tidal volume group and 1.18 (95% CI 0.59-2.35, p = .639) in the 6 mL/kg predicted body weight tidal volume group. Other definitions of hypercapnic acidosis spanning a range of magnitudes suggest a dose-response association between hypercapnic acidosis and 28-day mortality in the 12 mL/kg predicted body weight tidal volume group. None of our definitions of hypercapnic acidosis were associated with reduction in 28-day mortality in the 6 mL/kg predicted body weight tidal volume group.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypercapnic acidosis was associated with reduced 28-day mortality in the 12 mL/kg predicted body weight tidal volume group after controlling for comorbidities and severity of lung injury. These results are consistent with a protective effect of hypercapnic acidosis against ventilator-associated lung injury that was not found when the further ongoing injury was reduced by 6 mL/kg predicted body weight tidal volumes.

Hypercapnic acidosis does not modulate the severity of bacterial pneumonia-induced lung injury

OBJECTIVE

Deliberate induction of hypercapnic acidosis protects against lung injury after ischemia-reperfusion, endotoxin-induced, and ventilation-induced lung injury. The efficacy of hypercapnic acidosis in bacterial lung infection, a common cause of acute respiratory distress syndrome, is not known. Furthermore, its effect may differ depending on the presence or absence of antibiotic therapy. We investigated whether hypercapnic acidosis-induced by adding CO2 to inspired gas-would protect against acute lung injury induced by pulmonary Escherichia coli instillation in an in vivo model in the presence and absence of effective antibiotic therapy.

DESIGN

Prospective randomized animal study.

SETTING

University research laboratory.

SUBJECTS

Adult male Wistar-Kyoto rats.

INTERVENTIONS

The animals were anesthetized and ventilated. In series 1, rats were administered intravenous ceftriaxone (100 mg x kg) and randomized to normocapnia (Normocapnia-ABx; Fico2 0.00, n = 10) or hypercapnia (Hypercapnia-ABx; Fico2 0.05, n = 10) groups. E. coli (8.4 x 10 colony forming units) was instilled intratracheally. Series 2 animals did not receive antibiotics. They were randomized to normocapnia (Normocapnia, n = 10) or hypercapnia (Hypercapnia, n = 10) groups, and intratracheal E. coli was administered. All animals were ventilated for 6 hrs.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

In series 1, there were no differences between Hypercapnia-ABx and Normocapnia-ABx groups with regard to: (a-a)o2 gradient (mean +/- sem; 215 +/- 13 vs. 252 +/- 22 mm Hg), Pao2, bronchoalveolar lavage neutrophil count, static lung compliance, or histologic injury. Lung bacterial yield was not different between the groups. In series 2, in the absence of antibiotic therapy, there were no differences between Hypercapnia and Normocapnia groups in: (a-a)o2 gradient (mean +/- sem, 345 +/- 25 vs. 332 +/- 23 mm Hg), systemic Pao2, bronchoalveolar lavage neutrophil count, or static lung compliance. Lung bacterial yield was not altered by hypercapnia in either series 1 or 2.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that hypercapnic acidosis did not alter the magnitude of the lung injury induced by intratracheal E. coli instillation in the presence or absence of antibiotics.

Does hypercapnic acidosis, induced by adding CO2 to inspired gas, have protective effect in a ventilator-induced lung injury?

To investigate whether hypercapnic acidosis, induced by adding CO2 to inspired gas, would be protective effect against ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI), we ventilated 55 normal white rabbits for 6 hr or until PaO2/FIO2 <200 mmHg. Control group (n=15) was ventilated with peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) of 15 cm H2O, positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) of 3 cm H2O, an inspiration-to-expiration ratio of 1:2, and an inspired oxygen fraction (FIO2) of 0.40. High pressure hypercapnic group (HPHC; n=20) was ventilated with PIP of 30 cm H2O, PEEP of 0 cm H2O, and FIO2 of 0.40. Carbon dioxide was introduced into the inspiratory limb of the ventilator circuit, as necessary to maintain hypercapnia (PaCO2, 65 to 75 mmHg). High pressure normocapnic group (HPNC; n=20) was ventilated with same setting of HPHC, except normocapnia (PaCO2, 35 to 45 mmHg). Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, interleukin-8 were significantly higher in high pressure ventilator group than control group (p<0.05). Wet weight to dry weight (WW/DW) and histologic scores were significantly higher in high pressure ventilator group than control group (p<0.05). However, there were no significant differences in oxygenation, BALF inflammatory markers, WW/DW and histologic scores between HPHC and HPNC groups. These findings suggest that hypercapnic acidosis at least induced by CO2 insufflation would not be protective effect against VILI in this model.

Permissive hypercapnia: role in protective lung ventilatory strategies

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Hypercapnia is a central component of current protective ventilatory strategies. This review aims to present and interpret data from recent clinical and experimental studies relating to hypercapnia and its role in protective ventilatory strategies.

RECENT FINDINGS

Increasing clinical evidence supports the use of permissive hypercapnia, particularly in acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome, status asthmaticus, and neonatal respiratory failure. However, there are no clinical data examining the contribution of hypercapnia per se to protective ventilatory strategies. Recent experimental studies provide further support for the concept of therapeutic hypercapnia, whereby deliberately elevated PaCO2 may attenuate lung and systemic organ injury. CO2 administration attenuates experimental acute lung injury because of adverse ventilatory strategies, mesenteric ischemia reperfusion, and pulmonary endotoxin instillation. Hypercapnic acidosis attenuates key effectors of the inflammatory response and reduces lung neutrophil infiltration. At the genomic level, hypercapnic acidosis attenuates the activation of nuclear factor-kappaB, a key regulator of the expression of multiple genes involved in the inflammatory response. The physiologic effects of hypercapnia, both beneficial and potentially deleterious, are increasingly well understood. In addition, reports suggest that humans can tolerate extreme levels of hypercapnia for relatively prolonged periods without adverse effects.

SUMMARY

The potential for hypercapnia to contribute to the beneficial effects of protective lung ventilatory strategies is clear from experimental studies. However, the optimal ventilatory strategy and the precise contribution of hypercapnia to this strategy remain unclear. A clearer understanding of its effects and mechanisms of action is central to determining the safety and therapeutic utility of hypercapnia in protective lung ventilatory strategies.

Mechanical ventilation with moderate tidal volumes synergistically increases lung cytokine response to systemic endotoxin

Previous animal studies have identified a role for activation of innate immunity in the pathogenesis of ventilator-associated lung injury. These studies have used large tidal volume ventilation to study the effect of alveolar overdistension on induction of inflammatory pathways. We hypothesized an alternative mechanism for the pathogenesis of lung injury in which moderate tidal volume ventilation does not independently cause clinical inflammation but rather interacts with innate immune activation by bacterial products, resulting in an enhanced inflammatory response. We measured cytokine expression and lung injury in normal and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated anesthetized rabbits randomized to either spontaneous respiration or mechanical ventilation. Outcome parameters were analyzed by two-way factorial analysis of variance to identify synergism between ventilation and systemic LPS. Mechanical ventilation alone resulted in minimal cytokine expression in the lung but did enhance LPS-induced expression of tumor necrosis factor-α, the CXC chemokines interleukin-8 and growth-related protein-α, and the CC chemokine monocyte chemoattractant protein-1. Increased mRNA expression and activation of the transcription factors nuclear factor-κB and activator protein-1 accompanied the cytokine responses. We conclude that moderate volume ventilation strategies augment the innate immune response to bacterial products in the lung and may play a role in the development of acute lung injury in patients with sepsis.

Bench-to-bedside review: Permissive hypercapnia

Current protective lung ventilation strategies commonly involve hypercapnia. This approach has resulted in an increase in the clinical acceptability of elevated carbon dioxide tension, with hypoventilation and hypercapnia 'permitted' in order to avoid the deleterious effects of high lung stretch. Advances in our understanding of the biology of hypercapnia have prompted consideration of the potential for hypercapnia to play an active role in the pathogenesis of inflammation and tissue injury. In fact, hypercapnia may protect against lung and systemic organ injury independently of ventilator strategy. However, there are no clinical data evaluating the direct effects of hypercapnia per se in acute lung injury. This article reviews the current clinical status of permissive hypercapnia, discusses insights gained to date from basic scientific studies of hypercapnia and acidosis, identifies key unresolved concerns regarding hypercapnia, and considers the potential clinical implications for the management of patients with acute lung injury.