Diabetes-associated neutrophil NETosis: pathogenesis and interventional target of diabetic complications

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are known as extracellular fibers networks consisting of antimicrobial proteins and decondensated chromatin DNA released by activated neutrophils. NETosis is a NETs-induced neutrophilic cell death which is unique from necrosis or apoptosis. Besides its neutralizing pathogen, NETosis plays a crucial role in diabetes and diabetes-related complications. In patients with diabetes, NETs-releasing products are significantly elevated in blood, and these findings confirm the association of NETosis and diabetic complications, including diabetic wound healing, diabetic retinopathy, and atherosclerosis. This article briefly summarizes the mechanisms of NETosis and discusses its contribution to the pathogenesis of diabetes-related complications and suggests new therapeutic targets by some small molecule compounds.

Automated summary

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are released by activated neutrophils and consist of antimicrobial proteins and DNA. NETosis, a form of neutrophilic cell death, plays a crucial role in diabetes and its complications. Increased levels of NETs in the blood of diabetic patients confirm the association between NETosis and complications such as impaired wound healing, retinopathy, and atherosclerosis. This article summarizes the mechanisms of NETosis and discusses potential therapeutic targets using small molecule compounds.