Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 15, 2026
08:50
Direct Observation of Phagocytosis and NET-formation by Neutrophils in Infected Lungs using 2-photon Microscopy
Published on: June 2, 2011
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Neutrophils in viral infection
Victor Naumenko1,2, Madison Turk1, Craig N Jenne3,4
1Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Calvin, Phoebe and Joan Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, HRIC 3330 Hospital Drive N.W, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada.
Cell and Tissue Research
|January 13, 2018
Summary
Neutrophils are key immune cells in bacterial and fungal defense. This review explores their less-understood roles in antiviral immunity and cancer therapy, highlighting their impact on viral infections and treatments.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Oncology
Background:
- Neutrophils are primary responders to infection and injury, critical for bacterial and fungal clearance.
- Their role in antiviral immunity is less understood compared to their function in bacterial/fungal infections.
- Neutrophil involvement in tumor pathogenesis and cancer treatment, especially with oncolytic viruses, is gaining attention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diverse functions of neutrophils in viral infections and immunity.
- To elucidate the impact of neutrophils on antiviral responses.
- To discuss the implications of neutrophil activity in oncolytic virotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on neutrophils, viral infections, and cancer immunology.
- Synthesis of findings regarding neutrophil functions in different viral contexts.
- Analysis of neutrophil-cytokine interactions and their effects on tumor cells.
Main Results:
- Neutrophils exhibit multifaceted roles in antiviral immunity, extending beyond their traditional roles.
- In the context of oncolytic viruses, neutrophils can produce antitumor cytokines and enhance viral oncolysis.
- Neutrophil activity can influence both the pathogenesis of viral infections and the efficacy of antiviral therapies.
Conclusions:
- A deeper understanding of neutrophil functions in viral infections is crucial.
- Targeting neutrophils may offer novel strategies for managing viral diseases and improving oncolytic virus therapies.
- Further research into neutrophil-mediated antiviral immunity is warranted.
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