Thromb Haemost 2014; 112(04): 659-665
DOI: 10.1160/TH14-05-0455
Theme Issue Article
Schattauer GmbH

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and the role of platelets in infection

Robert K. Andrews
1   Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
,
Jane F. Arthur
1   Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
,
Elizabeth E. Gardiner
1   Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Received: 23 May 2014

Accepted after minor revision: 21 July 2014

Publication Date:
04 December 2017 (online)

Summary

In addition to playing a central role in normal haemostasis, platelets make important contributions to host inflammatory and immune responses to injury or infection. Under pathophysiological conditions where platelet function is not tightly controlled, platelets also play critical roles in pathogenic processes underlying cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled inflammation, coagulopathy and in tumour metastasis. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are webs of histone-modified nuclear material extruded from activated neutrophils during inflammatory responses and these degranulation events can be directly triggered by platelet/neutrophil engagement. Emerging research describes how NETs influence platelet function, particularly in the setting of infection and inflammation. Especially intriguing is the potential for platelet-driven coagulation to be modulated by NETs in plasma and interstitial spaces. These findings also reveal new perspectives related to improved therapy for venous thrombosis.