Neutrophil extracellular trapping role in cancer, metastases, and cancer-related thrombosis: A narrative review of the current evidence base

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Date
2021-08-03
Authors
Efrimescu, Catalin I.
Buggy, Padraig M.
Buggy, Donal J.
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Springer Nature Switzerland AG
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Abstract
Purpose of Review: Neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation is a newly discovered, reactive oxygen species-dependent regulated process, whereby neutrophils degranulate and extrude genetic material, after engulfing various infectious or neoplastic antigens, culminating in a measurable serologic footprint. Recent research has highlighted the involvement of NETs in cancer and cancer-related pathologies. We review the role of NET formation in cancer biology, prognosis and potential therapeutic modulators. Recent Findings: Elevated NET levels are associated with cancer metastasis and may be modified by some anaesthetic-analgesic techniques during tumour resection surgery. It promotes tumour cell migration, angiogenesis and hypercoagulability. Although there are potential anti-NET formation therapeutics available, their role has not been formally assessed in cancer patients. Summary: Limited available evidence suggests an association between elevated NET expression and cancer metastasis, but its validity as a prognostic indicator for cancer-related outcomes is inconclusive. Further observational and interventional studies are warranted to comprehend the potential prognostic and therapeutic role of NETs in cancer.
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Keywords
Neutrophil extracellular trapping , NETosis , NETs , White blood cells , Neutrophils , Cancer , Metastases , Thrombosis
Citation
Efrimescu, C. I., Buggy, P. M. and Buggy, D. J. (2021) 'Neutrophil extracellular trapping role in cancer, metastases, and cancer-related thrombosis: A narrative review of the current evidence base', Current Oncology Reports, 23, 118 (12pp). doi: 10.1007/s11912-021-01103-0
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© 2021, the Authors, under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature. This is a post-peer-review, pre-copyedit version of an article published in Current Oncology Reports. The final authenticated version is available online at: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11912-021-01103-0