NETosis in Rheumatic Diseases

Neutrophils are the most numerous and the first responder cells of the innate immune system. Evidence suggests that neutrophils may play an essential role in the pathogenesis of multiple systemic diseases. A novel mechanism of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) leading to breaking of self-tolerance and generation of autoimmune responses in predisposed individuals has been described in various autoimmune conditions. The purpose of the review is to identify these important mechanisms of NETs leading to autoimmunity in various rheumatic diseases.

NETs contain histone and chromatin, which contain important autoantigens. Many autoimmune conditions are associated with increased NET-generating capacity, unique low-density granulocyte population, and impaired NET degradation leading to persistent inflammation and tissue damage. NETs can also activate other immune cells, and their components may amplify the inflammatory response by activation of complement pathways and inflammasomes. NETs can also contribute to autoantibody formation in disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, ANCA-associated vasculitis, and systemic lupus erythematosus by providing a constant source of autoantigens. NETs can also serve as biomarkers providing insights into disease diagnosis and therapeutics. NETs seem to play a primary role in inflammatory disease pathogenesis. Identification of different NET pathogenic pathways in various rheumatic conditions could provide new insights into disease pathogenesis and therapeutic targets could be developed towards the future treatment of inflammatory autoimmune diseases.