Neutrophils are essential immune cells that protect the body from bacterial and viral infections through phagocytosis and intracellular protein activity. Under pathological conditions or in vitro stimulation, neutrophils can also release web-like structures called neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) (1)
NETs are composed of DNA and various proteins, including neutrophil elastase (NE), myeloperoxidase (MPO), cathepsin G, and the calprotectin protein complex (S100A8/A9). Among these, MPO-DNA and NE-DNA complexes are commonly used as target molecules for the detection of NETs through immunological assays (2). NETs act as scaffolds that trap microorganisms, bringing them into close proximity with antimicrobial compounds. This mechanism helps in preventing the spread of microbes while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues (3).
Each component of NETs has a unique function. During NETs formation, DNA fibers aggregate into thicker reticular structures. In the extracellular environment, MPO bound to NETs retains its enzymatic activity, producing oxidative compounds that kill pathogens. NE that has hydrolytic activity contributes to inflammation, bacterial infection progression, and excessive mucus secretion. S100A8/A9 also play a role in inflammatory signaling by activating pathways such as TLR4, NLRP3, and caspase-3. The presence of these molecules in NETs may enhance pro-inflammatory cytokine release, ultimately promoting cell death and exacerbating inflammatory responses (2, 4)
Chondrex, Inc. provides assay kits to analyze the dynamics of NETs components in tissues, biological fluids, and cultured cells.
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) Research Kits
| Product | Catalog # | Price (USD) | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
DNA Assay Kit | 6023 | 120.00 |
 |
Mouse Myeloperoxidase (MPO) Detection Kit | 6051 | 399.00 |
REFERENCES
- F. V. S. Castanheira, P. Kubes, Neutrophils and NETs in modulating acute and chronic inflammation. Blood 133, 2178–2185 (2019).
- A. U. Morales-Primo, I. Becker, J. Zamora-Chimal, Neutrophil extracellular trap-associated molecules: a review on their immunophysiological and inflammatory roles. Int. Rev. Immunol. 41, 253–274 (2022).
- A. T. P. Ngo, K. Gollomp, Building a better NET: Neutrophil extracellular trap targeted therapeutics in the treatment of infectious and inflammatory disorders. Res. Pract. Thromb. Haemost. 6, e12808 (2022).
- U. Demkow, Molecular Mechanisms of Neutrophil Extracellular Trap (NETs) Degradation. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 24 (2023).