Scientists at the University of Liege in Belgium have uncovered the presence of DNA traps in the lungs of patients who have died from COVID-19. As it turns out, they are released into the respiratory tract, lung tissue and blood vessels. As a result, this leads to serious complications. This is stated in a press release published on the EurekAlert! Website.
DNA traps are generated by immune cells called neutrophils, which act as the first line of defense against infection. When over-activated, neutrophils can be toxic and can trigger autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases. In addition, neutrophils are able to release their own DNA during netosis, a form of cell death. When released on a massive scale, such DNA traps can cause tissue damage.
Scientists have found traces of netosis in the form of fibrin-rich clots in the blood vessels, lung tissue and respiratory tract. They provoked thrombosis and lung damage. This process occurs as a result of uncontrolled activation of the immune system, which also leads to a cytokine storm.
At the moment, experts are conducting research on the effect of netosis on other organs, including the heart. This process itself can be mitigated by some pharmacological drugs. These include dornase alfa, which is used to treat cystic fibrosis.
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