Figure 5.

Summarised downstream effects of LPS signalling. LPS influences a range of cell types and physiological processes. The activation of leukocytes initiates the immune response and the release of various inflammatory mediators. LPS also activates specific immune processes such as the maturation and migration of dendritic cell, autophagy in macrophages, and activation of the complement system. In the liver, LPS stimulates the production of acute phase proteins as well as several inflammatory mediators. Similarly, LPS promotes inflammatory reactions in adipose tissue. These mediators as well as the increased activity of enzymes involved in the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species contribute to a cellular stress. A major action of LPS is its ability to promote coagulation both by enhancing the expression of molecules that stimulate clotting and through direct interaction with red blood cells and platelets. LPS-mediated changes to the endothelium also promote coagulation.