MDSCs in sepsis-induced immunosuppression and its potential therapeutic targets

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. In sepsis, a complicated immune response is initiated, which varies over time with sustained excessive inflammation and immunosuppression. Identifying a promising way to orchestrate sepsis-induced immunosuppression is a chal-lenge. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) comprise pathologically activated neutrophils and monocytes with potent immunosuppressive activity. They play an important part in inhibiting innate and adaptive immune responses, and have emerged as part of the immune response in sepsis. MDSCs numbers are persistently high in sepsis patients, and associated with nosocomial infections and other adverse clinical outcomes. However, their characteristics and functional mechanisms during sepsis have not been addressed fully. Our review sheds light on the features and suppressive mechanism of MDSCs. We also review the potential applications of MDSCs as biomarkers and targets for clinical treatment of sepsis.

Automated summary

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition resulting from an uncontrolled host response to infection. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), which consist of pathologically activated neutrophils and monocytes, play an important role in inhibiting innate and adaptive immune responses. This review explores the characteristics and suppressive mechanisms of MDSCs, and discusses their potential applications as biomarkers and targets for clinical treatment of sepsis.