In this episode, Nicole Kupchik sits down with Dr. Craig Jenne to unravel how the liver’s immune response shifts during sepsis. Together, they explore how an organ known for detoxifying and defending the body can actually fuel inflammation and injury. From leukocyte traps to immune misfires, we’re looking at the cellular chaos behind sepsis and what it takes to restore balance. A fascinating deep-dive for clinicians, researchers, and anyone curious about the unseen complexity of critical illness.

Featured Guests:

Dr. Jenne (@JenneLab) is a Professor within the Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, the Department of Critical Care Medicine at the University of Calgary and holds an adjunct appointment within the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Jenne is the Jessie Boden Lloyd Professor in Immunology Research and is the Deputy Director of the Snyder Institute for Chronic Disease. 

Key Takeaways:

Understand how the liver acts as both a frontline defender and a potential amplifier of damage during sepsis, particularly when immune cells shift from protection to overreaction.

Explore the role of the liver’s microvasculature and immune cells, like Kupffer cells and neutrophils, in modulating inflammation and capturing pathogens, and how these processes can spiral into collateral damage.

Learn why “leukocyte traps” (NETs) might be protective at first, but dangerous later, contributing to tissue damage, clotting, and worsening sepsis outcomes.

Gain insight into why timing matters in liver-driven immune response, and how early interventions might reduce secondary injury and help prevent long-term organ dysfunction.

See how this research might inform new therapies, including those that protect organ function without suppressing the immune system too early.

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To Learn More About Sepsis, Visit Sepsis.org

Produced by: Human Content and Sepsis Alliance

Sepsis is a life-threatening emergency that happens when your body’s response to an infection damages vital organs and, often, causes death. In other words, it’s your body’s overactive and toxic response to an infection. Like strokes or heart attacks, sepsis is a medical emergency that requires rapid diagnosis and treatment. Sepsis can lead to severe sepsis and septic shock. 

Sepsis Alliance is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.