A scanning electron microscope image of NETs engulfing fungal cells (Candida albicans) in an infected mouse lung. (Click on image for more details). Fluorescent image of cultivated neutrophils isolated from venous blood of human with Alzheimer Disease. Sample was treated with Hoechst 33342 dye that is used to stain DNA. The picture shows the release of DNA by a neutrophil as foggy area in the center of the view field indicating the spontaneous activation of<unk>  (NETs) formation in AD patients that is not usually observed in healthy mates. Magnification x40.<unk>  (NETs) are networks of<unk>  fibers, primarily composed of DNA from neutrophils, which bind pathogens. Neutrophils are the immune system's first line of defense against infection and have conventionally been thought to kill invading pathogens through two strategies: engulfment of microbes and secretion of anti-microbials. In 2004, a novel third function was identified: formation of NETs. NETs allow neutrophils to kill<unk>  pathogens while minimizing damage to the host cells. Upon in vitro activation with the pharmacological agent phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), Interleukin 8 (IL-8) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS), neutrophils release granule proteins and chromatin to form an<unk>  fibril matrix known as NET through an active process.
Neutrophil extracellular traps
Total complement activity
Heterophile antibody
Immune complex
Pustular bacterid
Microantibody
Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody
Absolute neutrophil count