ABSTRACT
AIMS: Heat stroke is a life-threatening disorder triggered by thermoregulatory failure. Hyperthermia-induced splanchnic hypoperfusion has been reported to induce intestinal barrier dysfunction and systemic immune response that ultimately cause multiple-organ failure and death. Intestinal goblet cells contribute greatly to the formation of mucus barrier, which hinders translocation of gut microorganisms. Studies have reported that misoprostol can not only alleviate ischemic injury but also protect GI mucosal layer. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of misoprostol on intestinal goblet cells after heat stress and on multiple-organ dysfunction in heat stroke rats. MAIN METHODS: Heat stress was established in the heating chamber and followed by misoprostol treatment. Changes in hemodynamics, organ function indices, inflammation, oxidative stress, and survival rate were analyzed. Furthermore, ilea and LS174T cells were used to examine intestinal functions. KEY FINDINGS: Heat stress caused dysfunction of intestinal goblet cells and damage to ilea by increasing oxidative stress and apoptosis. Increased nitrosative stress and inflammation accompanied by hypotension, hypoperfusion, tachycardia, multiple-organ dysfunction, and death were observed in the heat stroke rat model. Treatment of LS174T cells with misoprostol not only decreased oxidative stress and apoptosis but also reduced cytotoxicity caused by heat stress. Moreover, misoprostol prevented disruption of the enteric barrier, multiple-organ injury, and death in rats with heat stroke. SIGNIFICANCE: This study indicates that misoprostol could alleviate intestinal damage and organ injury caused by heat stress and be a potential therapy for heat-related illnesses.
