Letter to the editor: Elevated Plasma Levels of Cell-Free DNA During Liver Transplantation Are Associated With Activation of Coagulation.

Abstract

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is emerging as an immuno-modulator in numerous medical conditions including in malignancy, chronic inflammatory diseases, trauma, sepsis, and organ transplantation. Significant evidence exists supporting a link between cfDNA and the presence of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). NETs, comprising an extra-cellular mesh of chromatin and neutrophil granular proteins, enable extracellular pathogen entrapment and clearance. NETs have attracted attention as they play a critical role in the immune system. Furthermore, Early reports have demonstrated that the inhibition of NETs can modulate the immune response .