Compositions disclosed herein, and methods of use thereof included those for treating or preventing sepsis in a subject in need, including methods of extending of the survival of a subject suffering from sepsis, and reduction of organ dysfunction or failure due to sepsis. Methods of treating or preventing sepsis in a subject in need includes administering compositions comprising early apoptotic cells or early apoptotic cell supernatants. Compositions and methods of use thereof may reduce the negative proinflammatory effect accompanying sepsis. Further, anti-inflammatory cytokine release may be reduced. In certain instances, compositions may include additional agents.