We investigated MBL2 and MASP2 genotypes, serum MBL (mannose-binding lectin) levels and activities of its complexes with associated serine

Cold heart protection via cardioplegia administration, limits the amount of oxygen demand. Systemic normothermia with warm cardioplegia was introduced due to the abundance of detrimental effects of hypothermia. A temperature of 32-33°C in combination with tepid blood cardioplegia of the same temperature appears to be protective enough for both; heart and brain. Reduction of nitric oxide (NO) concentration is in part responsible for myocardial injury after the cardioplegic cardiac arrest. Restoration of NO balance with exogenous NO supplementation has been shown useful to prevent inflammation and apoptosis. In this article, we discuss the «deleterious» effects of the oxidative stress of the extracorporeal circulation and the up-to-date theories of «ideal» myocardial protection.

proteases (MASP-1, MASP -2), in relation to complications following cardiac surgery in 195 children. The incidence of SIRS was lower in patients carrying MBL2 A/O and O/O genotypes (p = 0.024). Children with MBL levels <500 ng/ml had a lower risk of SIRS (p = 0.014) and fever (p = 0.044). Median MBL concentration was higher in patients who developed SIRS (p = 0.048) but lower in those with post-operative infections (p = 0.046). MBL-MASP-2 activities <100 mU/ml protected from SIRS (p = 0.007), low cardiac output syndrome (p = 0.03) and multiorgan failure (p = 0.012). In contrast, MBL2 YA/YA genotypes were associated with SIRS (p = 0.018), low cardiac output syndrome (p = 0.018), fever (p = 0.018) and high inotropic score (VIS >30) (p = 0.021). Thus, low MBL concentrations and associated genotypes may protect patients from systemic inflammation while high MBL serum levels and corresponding genotypes are risk factors of postoperative complications.