ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the methodology used in meta-analysis, the release of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) in septic shock. The radioimmunoassay (RIA) method is based on competition between radio-actively labeled and unlabeled hormone for a specific binding site of an antibody. VIP has a short half time once in the circulation and is eliminated mainly in the liver and lungs. Infusion of endotoxin, over a minimum time of 1 h in a controlled experimental model producing shock, but allowing survival for at least 6 h, was accepted as relevant. A major possible problem with all studies on VIP in the present context is the fact that all plasma measurements have been done with RIA methodology. The assay should be described either in the publication or in an adequate reference reporting detection limit, within-assay precision, and between-assay precision. Cross-reactivity with secretin and glycogen should be reported and confirmed as negative.
