Neutrophil extracellular trap-associated extracellular chromatin (NETs)

Neutrophil extracellular trap (NET)-associated extracellular chromatin is a web-like scaffold of decondensed genomic DNA and histones released by neutrophils to capture and neutralize pathogens (Brinkmann et al., 2004, Science). This structure is embedded with antimicrobial proteins like neutrophil elastase and myeloperoxidase, which facilitate the destruction of trapped microorganisms (Papayannopoulos, 2018, Nature Reviews Immunology). While essential for innate immunity, the persistence or excessive formation of these extracellular traps is linked to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis (Knight et al., 2012, Science Translational Medicine). Furthermore, NETs serve as a prothrombotic platform that promotes immunothrombosis in conditions like deep vein thrombosis and COVID-19 (Caudrillier et al., 2012, JCI). In oncology, NETs have been implicated in shielding tumor cells from the immune system and promoting metastasis (Albrengues et al., 2018, Science). Therapeutic targeting of this chromatin primarily involves the use of DNases, such as Dornase alfa, to enzymatically digest the DNA backbone and dismantle the trap structure.

Other names

Neutrophil extracellular trapsNETsExtracellular chromatinExtracellular DNAeDNAChromatin traps

Enzymatic degradation of the DNA backbone by DNases or neutralization of histone components to dismantle the trap structure.