Extracellular DNA in airway mucus (eDNA)

Extracellular DNA (eDNA) is a major pathological component of the thick, viscous mucus found in the airways of patients with chronic inflammatory lung diseases, most notably cystic fibrosis (Source: PubMed, PMID: 15103160). This DNA originates primarily from the nuclei of infiltrating neutrophils that undergo cell death or form neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in response to chronic infection (Source: NIH, PMC4375384). The presence of long, high-molecular-weight DNA polymers creates a dense structural scaffold that significantly increases the viscosity and elasticity of sputum, thereby impairing mucociliary clearance and providing a niche for bacterial colonization (Source: Journal of Clinical Investigation). Therapeutic strategies target eDNA using recombinant human deoxyribonuclease I (rhDNase), such as dornase alfa, which enzymatically cleaves the DNA into smaller fragments (Source: FDA, Pulmozyme Label). This enzymatic digestion reduces the physical thickness of the mucus, allowing patients to clear secretions more effectively and improving overall respiratory function (Source: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews).

Other names

Sputum extracellular DNAAirway eDNANeutrophil-derived extracellular DNANET-associated DNA

Enzymatic hydrolysis of the phosphodiester backbone of extracellular DNA polymers to reduce the viscoelasticity of airway secretions and improve mucociliary clearance.