Uses of lipopolysaccharide binding protein

Abstract

Novel LBP compositions and therapeutic uses for LBP are provided for preventing the adverse effects of exposure to endotoxin.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A method for inhibiting adverse effects of endotoxin in circulation comprising the steps of 
 determining the circulating lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP) level of a subject at risk for exposure to endotoxin, and    administering to said subject having a circulating LBP level within the normal range an amount of LBP effective to elevate the circulating LBP level to inhibit the adverse effects of exposure to endotoxin.    
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the circulating LBP level of said subject is elevated to a level from about 15 μg/mL to about 100 μg/mL.  
     
     
         3 . A composition comprising lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP) in a solution buffered at about pH 7.5 and containing a poloxamer surfactant.  
     
     
         4 . A composition comprising LBP in a solution buffered at about pH 7.5 and containing a poloxamer surfactant and a polysorbate surfactant.