Heparan Sulfate (IMAGE) Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Caption Memory loss and cognitive dysfunction associated with septic shock is the result of the sugar heparan sulfate, which is released into the bloodstream and enters the brain during the life-threatening condition. Credit Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.