Frontiers in Immunology (Dec 2022)

Increased formation of neutrophil extracellular traps in patients with anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis

  • Shan Qiao,
  • Quan-ye Sun,
  • Peng Zhou,
  • Shan-chao Zhang,
  • Shan-chao Zhang,
  • Zhi-hao Wang,
  • Hai-yun Li,
  • Ai-hua Wang,
  • Xue-wu Liu,
  • Xue-wu Liu,
  • Tao Xin

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2022.1046778
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 13

Abstract

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BackgroundNeutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have been found to play an important role in several nervous system diseases. However, their role in anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to examine the possible role of NETs in anti-NMDAR encephalitis.Materials and methodsEleven patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis and ten healthy participants were enrolled. Plasma NETs levels were detected using an immunofluorescence assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Additionally, we examined 10 plasma cytokines in patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis and analyzed the correlation between citrullinated histone 3 levels and cytokine release. ResultsPeripheral blood neutrophils from patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis were more susceptible to NET generation. When compared with controls, cases of anti-NMDAR encephalitis showed elevated levels of IL-1 α, IL-6, IL-8, IL-13, MCP-1, and TNF-α (p < 0.05). Moreover, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α levels were positively correlated with H3Cit levels.ConclusionWe provide evidence that NETs may play a role in anti-NMDAR encephalitis, providing clues for elucidation of the pathogenesis of this disease.

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