Effect of C1-inhibitor in a rat model of necrotizing enterocolitis

Our aim was to investigate the effect of C1-inhibitor (C1-INH) in a rat mod el of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Twenty-four anesthetized and artific ially ventilated rats received 0.1 mg/kg endotoxin, Fifteen minutes later, the animals in the study group (n = 12) were treated with 200 IU/kg C1-INH whereas the control animals (n = 12) received normal saline. In all animals , FiO(2) was reduced after 90 min from 0.21 to 0.05 and ventilation continu ed until 180 min or death. All animals developed shock symptoms. Drop in me an arterial blood pressure was more pronounced and survival time was shorte r in the control group. Whereas the C1-INH activity increased in the study group, it decreased in the control group. The extent of macroscopic intesti nal lesions did not differ between the groups. In conclusion, C1-INH did no t prevent shock, but mitigated and delayed its course.