Neutrophil extracellular trap DNA (NET DNA)

Neutrophil extracellular trap DNA is the decondensed chromatin released from activated neutrophils as part of NETs, which are web-like extracellular structures composed primarily of DNA, histones, and antimicrobial proteins. These structures trap and kill pathogens in the extracellular space and contribute to immune defense but are also implicated in inflammatory diseases, autoimmunity, thrombosis, and cancer. The DNA backbone of NETs is directly antimicrobial and acts as a scaffold for associated proteins. Excess NETs or impaired clearance can drive pathology through inflammation, tissue damage, vessel occlusion, and the induction of autoantibodies[1][3][5][7][9].

Other names

NET DNANETs chromatinchromatin of neutrophil extracellular trapsdecondensed NET DNAextracellular neutrophil DNA

Degradation of extracellular DNA (by DNase) to dissolve NETs and reduce their pathogenic effects; Inhibition of chromatin decondensation and histone modification (by PAD4 inhibitors); Suppression of NET formation (colchicine, chloroquine)