The Novel Compound SUL-138 Counteracts Endothelial Cell and Kidney Dysfunction in Sepsis by Preserving Mitochondrial Function

Sepsis is defined as a dysregulated host response leading to organ dysfunction, which may ultimately result in the patient’s death. Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a key role in developing organ dysfunction in sepsis. In this study, we explored the efficacy of the novel mitochondrial protective compound, SUL-138, in sepsis models in HUVECs and mice. In LPS-challenged HUVECs, SUL-138 preserved mitochondrial membrane potential and oxygen consumption and limited mitochondrial oxidative stress, resulting in increased survival at 48 h. Further, SUL-138 dampened the LPS-induced expression of IL-1β, but not of NLRP3, and IL-18 in HUVECs. Sepsis in mice induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) led to a lower mitochondrial membrane potential and increased levels of mitochondrial oxidative stress in the kidney, which SUL-138 limited. In addition, SUL-138 mitigated the CLP-induced increase in kidney dysfunction markers NGAL and urea. It dampened the rise in kidney expression of IL-6, IL-1β, and ICAM-1, but not TNF-α and E-selectin. Yet, SUL-138 limited the increase in plasma levels of IL-6 and TNF-α of CLP mice. These results demonstrate that SUL-138 supports mitochondrial function, resulting in a limitation of systemic inflammation and preservation of kidney function.