Figure 4.

Pathophysiological functions of monocyte extracellular traps (MoETs). During inflammation, ETs can be induced in activated monocytes, which occurs in Nox-dependent manner. Monocyte can release DNA from the nucleus and mitochondria, containing similar ET components such as histone 3, MPO, lactoferrin and elastase. During infectious and inflammatory processes, MoETs entrap pathogens, stimulate phagocytosis and also accelerate the thrombin generation, thereby enhancing procoagulant phenotype. During male genital tract infections and inflammation, spermatozoa induce ET formation in monocytes, which in turn inhibit their motility and reproductive system function. Crystal-induced MoETs have been suggested to contribute to a dysfunction of the intestinal barrier and intestinal epithelial cell necrosis ultimately leading to systemic inflammation.