NETosis is a newly recognized mechanism of programmed neutrophil death. It is
characterized by a stepwise progression of chromatin decondensation, membrane rupture,
and release of bactericidal DNA-based structures called neutrophil extracellular traps
(NETs). Conventional 'suicidal'NETosis has been described in pathogenic models of
systemic autoimmune disorders. Recent in vivo studies suggest that a process of
'vital'NETosis also exists, in which chromatin is condensed and membrane integrity is …