Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
3399630 | Current Opinion in Microbiology | 2007 | 5 Pages |
Abstract
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are considered to be part of the human innate immunity because they trap and kill pathogens. NETs are formed by activated neutrophils and consist of a DNA backbone with embedded antimicrobial peptides and enzymes. They are involved in host defense during pneumococcal pneumonia, streptococcal necrotizing fasciitis, appendicitis and insemination. Recently, bacterial virulence factors that counteract NETs have been identified. These include the degradation of the NET-backbone by DNases enabling the liberation of bacteria from NETs, as well as capsule formation, which reduces bacterial trapping. Furthermore, pathogens can resist NET-mediated killing by adding positive charge to their cell surface.
Related Topics
Life Sciences
Immunology and Microbiology
Microbiology
Authors
Florian Wartha, Katharina Beiter, Staffan Normark, Birgitta Henriques-Normark,