Research progress on neutrophil extracellular traps and hepatitis-to-hepatocellular carcinoma transformation (Review)

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are web-like structures released by activated neutrophils, composed of DNA, histones and antimicrobial proteins. Although initially discovered for their role in innate immunity, NETs are also closely associated with the pathogenesis of chronic hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The present review, which analyzes the latest research from databases such as PubMed and Web of Science, focuses on the formation of NETs, their roles in hepatitis (including hepatitis B, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and ischemia-reperfusion injury) and their contributions to the initiation, progression and metastasis of HCC. The present review aimed to systematically elucidate the role of NETs in the transition from hepatitis to HCC, with a focus on underlying molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic implications. The current findings suggest that targeting NET formation or function through inhibition of peptidylarginine deiminase 4, neutrophil elastase, DNase I or related signaling pathways may represent a promising therapeutic strategy to suppress inflammation-driven hepatocarcinogenesis and improve outcomes for patients with HCC. However, further validation is required to translate these findings into clinical applications.