Expression of TIM-3 on Lymphocytes in Sepsis

Expression and the Clinical Significance of TIM-3 on Lymphocytes During Sepsis

The current project was designed to examine the express TIM-3 on lymphocytes and monocytes and its role in immunosuppression during sepsis.

Immunosuppression is the leading cause of death in septic patients.Lymphocyte apoptosis has been recognized as an important step in the pathogenesis of sepsis. Previous studies indicated that T cell immunoglobulin and mucin protein 3 (TIM-3) is a type I cell surface protein and was identified as a marker of lymphocyte dysfunction. The current project was designed to examine the express TIM-3 on lymphocytes and monocytes and its further role in immunosuppression during sepsis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patients with severe sepsis
• patients undergo invasive spine surgery
• healthy volunteers

Exclusion Criteria:

• patients with immunodeficient diseases
• patients who accept glucocorticoid or immunosuppressant
• patients with an age older than 18 years
• patients providing the informed consent