AIM: In this study, we aimed to explore the alteration and pathophysiological significance of the L-arginine (L-Arg)/NOS/NO pathway in the adventitia of rats with sepsis. METHODS: Sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Rat cardiac function was determined. NO generation, NOS activity and L-Arg transport were measured. The iNOS mRNA levels was determined by using RT-PCR. RESULTS: Cecal ligation and puncture induced severe sepsis with severe low glucose, high lacticemia and cardiac function inhibition. The iNOS activity was increased by 2.8-fold compared with controls (P