Neutrophil Extracellular Traps: As Antimicrobial Peptides

Abstract

Neutrophils are an integral part of innate immune response system, abundantly present in blood circulation. They are the primary responders to the injury or intruding pathogens in human body. Neutrophils engulf infectious microorganisms by the process of phagocytosis, which usually initiates the production of reactive oxygen species and adhere the neutrophilic antimicrobial granules with vacuoles containing pathogens. Upon activation, neutrophils also render signals for stimulation and maturation of macrophages and dendritic cells. They release neutrophil extracellular traps for the suppression of infection and inflammation along with other antimicrobial molecules. The antimicrobials that are present in neutrophil extracellular traps not only eradicate microbes but also moderately contribute to the pathogenesis of various diseases such as destruction of tissue observed in periodontitis. Genetic shortcomings in neutrophils with respect to their chemotaxis, migration and phagocytosis become evident as severe forms of periodontitis, thus highlighting their role in innate immunity. Therefore, the present review is undertaken to highlight the importance of production and release of neutrophil extracellular trap in the regulation of immune reaction and its role in periodontal disease. A comprehensive database search was performed to gather all the relevant data related to the action of neutrophil and neutrophil extracellular traps in various inflammatory diseases with special emphasis on periodontitis.