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Seminars in Immunopathology
Published in: Seminars in Immunopathology 4/2013

01-07-2013 | Review

Low-density granulocytes: a distinct class of neutrophils in systemic autoimmunity

Authors: Carmelo Carmona-Rivera, Mariana J. Kaplan

Published in: Seminars in Immunopathology | Issue 4/2013

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Abstract

Recent studies have renewed the interest on the potential role that neutrophils play in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other autoimmune conditions. A distinct subset of proinflammatory, low-density granulocytes (LDGs) isolated from the peripheral blood mononuclear cell fractions of patients with SLE has been described. While the origin and role of LDGs needs to be fully characterized, there is evidence that these cells may contribute to lupus pathogenesis and to the development of end-organ damage through heightened proinflammatory responses, altered phagocytic capacity, enhanced ability to synthesize type I interferons, and to kill endothelial cells. Furthermore, these cells readily form neutrophil extracellular traps, a phenomenon that may promote autoantigen externalization and organ damage. This review examines the biology and potential origin of LDGs, describes the ultrastructural characteristics of these cells, and discusses their putative pathogenic role in systemic autoimmune diseases.
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Metadata
Title
Low-density granulocytes: a distinct class of neutrophils in systemic autoimmunity
Authors
Carmelo Carmona-Rivera
Mariana J. Kaplan
Publication date
01-07-2013
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Seminars in Immunopathology / Issue 4/2013
Print ISSN: 1863-2297
Electronic ISSN: 1863-2300
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00281-013-0375-7

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