Neutrophil extracellular traps in systemic lupus erythematosus

Abstract

Objectives To study the role of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Materials and methods All medical databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Springer were searched for relevant data and the studies were published according to specific criteria and all materials available on the internet from 2011 to 2018. Search methodology All medical databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Springer were searched for relevant data. Data sources All medical databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Springer were searched for relevant data and all materials available on the internet from 2011 to 2018. Language covered English. Study selection (a) Published in English language. (b) Focused on NETs and lupus. (c) We used the latest publication giving the most relevant data. (d) All materials available on the internet from 2011 to 2018. Data extraction If the studies not fulfill the above criteria, then they were excluded. Data synthesis Short reviews were made on NETs and its role in SLE. Recent findings NETs are involved in the pathogenesis of SLE. They are associated with increased disease activity and considered as a potential therapeutic target. The ineffective clearance of NETs in patients with SLE exposes self-molecules to the immune system and contributes to the development of autoantibodies and proinflammatory cytokines, driving the pathogenesis of SLE. Conclusion Being in its early phase, studies related to the role of NETs in autoimmune diseases including SLE should be directed toward a better understanding of SLE pathogenesis and focusing on the association between the formation of NETs and various clinical aspects in SLE. Moreover, the relation between NET formation and other pathological and genetic determinants of SLE development is a rich area of future research.