Final answer:
Major cytokines in LPS endotoxicity include interleukin 1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), which play critical roles in the immune response by initiating inflammation. However, excessive levels may lead to septic shock and potentially fatal outcomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
What cytokines play a major role in LPS endotoxicity? This question pertains to the biological response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a component of the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria. The lipid A portion of LPS is responsible for its endotoxic effects. Pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin 1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) are crucial in moderating the immune response to LPS. Low concentrations of these cytokines can aid in host defense by promoting inflammation. However, high concentrations resulting from significant levels of endotoxin can lead to severe outcomes like septic shock, characterized by excessive inflammation, vasodilation, edema, drop in blood pressure, intravascular clotting, multi-organ failure, and potentially death. Some pathogens can evade immune detection by altering the production of cytokines, such as Yersinia pestis, which can inhibit TNF-α or enhance IL-10 production to subvert the host's immune response.