Abstract: Objective To explore the relationship between the expression changes of cytokines, interleukin-6（IL-6）, interleukin-8（IL-8）, and tumor necrosis factor-α （TNF-α）, and the wound time following explosive injury to rabbit’s chest. Methods The rabbit’s model of explosive injury was established. The expression levels of IL-6、 IL-8 and TNF-α in the plasma were detected by ELISA method at different wound time （0.5-12 h）. Results The level of IL-6 increased at 3 h after wounding and reached peak at 6 h. The level of IL-8 increased at 1 h and reached peak at 6 h. The level of TNF-α increased at 0.5 h and reached peak at 3 h. Conclusion IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α have a time-related expression after explosive injury.

Key words: forensic pathology, thoracic injuries, blast injuries, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, rabbits