Neutrophil extracellular trap DNA scaffold (NET DNA)

The NET DNA scaffold refers to the decondensed nuclear chromatin that forms the backbone of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). During NETosis, neutrophils extrude chromatin fibers (mainly DNA with histones and associated cytotoxic enzymes) into the extracellular space, where they function to trap and neutralize pathogens but can also promote inflammation, thrombosis, and tissue damage. This DNA scaffold is essential for immobilizing microbes, providing a structural base for localized high concentrations of toxic proteins, and serving as a stimulus for coagulation and inflammatory signaling. Excess or defective clearance of NET DNA scaffolds is implicated in autoimmunity, thrombosis, cancer progression, and a variety of inflammatory diseases[1][2][3][4][5][6][8].

Other names

NET DNANeutrophil extracellular trap DNANET scaffoldExtracellular DNA scaffold of NETs

DNase digests extracellular DNA scaffold, preventing NET-mediated trapping, thrombosis, and tissue injury. Heparin destabilizes the NET scaffold and increases its clearance. PAD4 inhibition prevents histone citrullination, thus inhibiting chromatin decondensation and NET formation.