Figure 2.

Gas6: the paradoxical role in sepsis. During sepsis, Gas6 could be used as an early biomarker in the routine management of septic patients since Gas6 plasma levels, measured at the time of ICU admission, can predict mortality and multiorgan failure. The high levels of Gas6 released in the bloodstream during sepsis seem to be aimed at counterbalancing sepsis dysfunctions; however, because inflammatory stimuli downregulate TAM receptors, the Gas6 overrelease is ineffective. Current therapy for sepsis is aimed at decreasing inflammatory stimuli. Gas6 administration after current therapy could operate on activated TAM receptors and protect the organs from sepsis-induced damage. The combination of a correct early diagnosis and the protective effects mediated by Gas6 could ameliorate the outcome/overall survival of patients.