The pathway of neutrophil extracellular traps towards atherosclerosis and thrombosis

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are web-like extrusions of genetic material, which are released upon neutrophil activation. NETs consist of a chromatin substructure, onto which a vast array of proteins with various properties is dispersed. NETs production was initially described as an unrecognized defense mechanism of neutrophils, due to their ability to entrap and possibly eliminate a wide range of pathogens. Nevertheless, growing evidence suggests that NETs are implicated in a multitude of pathophysiological conditions, such as autoimmunity, cancer, diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer's disease.
Source: Atherosclerosis - Category: Cardiology Authors: Tags: Review article Source Type: research