The impact of neutrophil extracellular traps in coronavirus disease - 2019 pathophysiology

Abstract

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by novel coronavirus-2019 (nCoV-2019), is a highly contagious disease with high mortality and morbidity risk. Infected people may suffer from respiratory infections, which may be more progressive in patients with a defective immune system and underlying medical problems. In this regard, the cells involved in the innate immune system, play a decisive role in disease progression and complication development. Pathogen entrapment is the critical role of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETosis). This process involves the widespread release of fibrous structures by the stimulant-activated neutrophils. These fibrous structures are composed of cytosolic proteins and granular contents brought together by a network of released chromatins. This network can inhibit the spread of pathogens by their entrapment. Moreover, NETosis damage the host by producing toxic agents and triggering thrombosis. Therefore, this phenomenon may act as a double-edged sword. Regarding the rapid expansion of COVID-19, it is crucial to examine the involvement of NETosis in infected patients. This study aims to discuss NETosis participation to show its probable association with increased risk of thrombogenicity and help develop new therapeutic approaches in the battle against this viral disease.