Neutrophils: An Important Player in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

The immune system contains several different cells that act as the first line of defence, reacting to a broad range of intruders as quickly as possible; an example of such cells is neutrophils. There has been increased focus on neutrophils due to the key role they potentially play in the pathogenesis of various diseases caused by the overactivation or malfunctioning of these cells. Investigations have been conducted to explore the role of neutrophils in the pathogenesis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). The SLE is an autoimmune disorder in which one or multiple organs become inflamed or damaged, resulting in the release of autoantigens and subsequently activating B cells that produce autoantibodies. The severity of the disease, as well as the specific organs affected, can influence how it manifests in the individual patient, and it has the potential to be fatal. Disease development can be influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The process of diagnosing SLE is based on clinical signs and symptoms that evolve, thus creating diagnostic challenges and impacting the ability to anticipate how a patient will respond to treatment due to the heterogeneous nature of the disorder. Neutrophils play a key role in the development of SLE as they serve as a source of nuclear autoantigens, due to reduced phagocytosis and increased production of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs). The present review aimed to analyse the role of neutrophils, particularly in the context of SLE development. Additionally, it will discuss the potential for these cells to be involved in the diagnosis and treatment of SLE.

Keywords

• autoantigens
• autoimmunity
• environmental factors
• genetics
• neutrophil extracellular traps