Journal of Research in Microbiology and Immunology ISSN: 3108-0952 (Online)

Authors: Dr. Radhika Singh, Dr. Vikram Desai

ABSTRACT: Sepsis and septic shock represent life-threatening syndromes resulting from a dysregulated host immune response to infection. The immune system, while critical for pathogen clearance, can become overactive, leading to systemic inflammation, organ dysfunction, and mortality. This paper reviews the mechanisms of immune regulation in sepsis, including the roles of innate and adaptive immunity, cytokine signaling, immune checkpoints, and regulatory cell populations. Both hyperinflammatory responses and subsequent immunosuppression are analyzed to understand their contributions to disease progression. The paper also examines emerging therapeutic strategies targeting immune modulation, including cytokine blockers, checkpoint inhibitors, and immunoadjuvants. Understanding the balance between protective and pathological immune responses is essential to improve clinical outcomes, guide immunotherapeutic interventions, and reduce sepsis-related mortality.

KEYWORDS: Sepsis, septic shock, immune regulation, cytokines, immunosuppression, hyperinflammation, immunotherapy.