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Neutrophil Extracellular Traps: New Aspects.
1Department of Biology, Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia.
Moscow University Biological Sciences Bulletin
|February 15, 2021
Summary
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are a crucial defense mechanism against pathogens. However, their uncontrolled formation contributes to inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, highlighting a dual role in health and disease.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Neutrophils are key immune cells involved in pathogen defense via phagocytosis, degranulation, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production.
- Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs), released by neutrophils, are a unique effector function involving decondensed chromatin decorated with antimicrobial proteins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms of NET formation.
- To discuss the role of NETs in physiological processes and the pathogenesis of various diseases, including COVID-19.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on neutrophil function and NET formation.
- Analysis of the molecular mechanisms underlying NET release, including the role of ROS and gasdermin D.
- Examination of NET involvement in the pathology of inflammatory, autoimmune, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and oncological diseases.
Main Results:
- NET formation is a complex process involving ROS, histone modification, nuclear envelope breakdown, and chromatin release.
- NETs are implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, vasculitis, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and oncological conditions.
- Uncontrolled NET formation is a significant factor in the development and progression of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders.
Conclusions:
- NETs play a critical role in host defense but are also implicated in the pathology of diverse diseases.
- Understanding NET formation mechanisms is crucial for developing therapeutic strategies targeting NET-associated inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.
