Current Progress in Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs)

Dear Colleagues,

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are increasingly recognized as key regulators of immune function, possessing a dual role. While their physiological formation by activated neutrophils supports innate immunity by trapping and neutralizing pathogens, excessive NET production and impaired clearance contribute to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. NETs are implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis, where autoantibodies frequently target NET components and the histone-modifying enzyme peptidylarginine deiminase (PAD4). PAD4 and PAD2 have also emerged as novel autoantigens, expanding the scope of autoimmune mechanisms. Novel cancer research highlights NET-like structures known as Cellular Extrachromatin Cancer Networks (CECNs). Dependent on PAD4, these structures promote tumor heterogeneity, treatment resistance, and metastasis through non-canonical intercellular communication and adaptation to microenvironmental stress, revealing a new dimension in tumor biology.

We invite authors to submit manuscripts in the following areas:

• General reviews on NETs, providing biological background;
• Original research articles based on clinical data;
• Studies on PAD2/PAD4 as autoantigens, elucidating autoimmune mechanisms;
• Publications on NETs in oncology / CECNs, representing a novel research direction;
• Methodological papers describing techniques for NET detection;
• Articles on targeted therapies, allowing for clinically relevant conclusions.

Dr. Joanna Czerwińska
Guest Editor

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