Hypothermia protects against ventilator-induced lung injury by limiting IL-1β release and NETs formation.

Summary

In a murine LPS plus high-volume ventilation model, alveolar NETs formation and hypoxemia were observed. Induced hypothermia attenuated VILI by limiting IL-1β release and NETs formation, suggesting a potential adjunctive strategy to mitigate ventilation-associated injury.

Key Findings

• LPS plus high-volume ventilation in mice induced alveolar NETs formation and hypoxemia.
• Hypothermia limited IL-1β release and reduced NETs, attenuating ventilator-induced lung injury.
• Findings connect inflammatory signaling to a modifiable physiologic therapy.

Clinical Implications

Raises the hypothesis that controlled hypothermia could reduce VILI in severe ARDS, warranting safety and efficacy testing in clinical trials alongside lung-protective ventilation.

Limitations

• Preprint without peer review; small-animal model limits generalizability
• Sample size and detailed statistical outcomes not provided in abstract

Future Directions

Validate in larger preclinical models; define dosing/temperature-time windows; test adjunctive hypothermia with lung-protective ventilation in early-phase trials.