Evaluation of the effects of gender and estradiol treatment on the intestinal microcirculation during experimental sepsis

► The gut is a motor of organ system dysfunction during sepsis. ► The gut of female rats is more resistant to injury during sepsis. ► In male (or ovariectomized female) rats intestinal leukocyte adhesion is increased. ► Estradiol reduces leukocyte adhesion and improves functional capillary density. ► Estradiol might play a crucial role in vascular homeostasis during sepsis.