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Updated: Feb 15, 2026

Neutrophil Extracellular Traps: How to Generate and Visualize Them
Published on: February 24, 2010
Neutrophils and neutrophil extracellular traps in the liver and gastrointestinal system
Masaki Honda1,2, Paul Kubes1
1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Calvin, Phoebe and Joan Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, HRIC 3280 Hospital Drive N.W., Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada.
Abstract:
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have an important role during infection by helping neutrophils to capture and kill pathogens. However, evidence is accumulating that uncontrolled or excessive production of NETs is related to the exacerbation of inflammation and the development of autoimmunity, cancer metastasis and inappropriate thrombosis. In this Review, we focus on the role of NETs in the liver and gastrointestinal system, outlining their protective and pathological effects. The latest mechanistic insights in NET formation, interactions between microorganisms and NETs and the relationship between neutrophil subtypes and their functions are also discussed. Additionally, we describe the potential importance of NET-related molecules, including cell-free DNA and hypercitrullinated histones, as biomarkers and targets for therapeutic intervention in gastrointestinal diseases.
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