Neutrophil NETs: a novel contributor to preeclampsia-associated placental hypoxia?

Recent studies have suggested that the innate immune system is involved in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Its pathogenesis involves neutrophil activation and increased levels of cell-free DNA in the maternal plasma. Activation of neutrophils has recently been shown to induce DNA containing neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) which trap and kill bacteria. Massive NETs induction by the placentally derived factors (IL-8 and placental micro-debris) and their increased presence in preeclamptic placenta suggest that NETs might be involved in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Therefore, increased presence of NETs in preeclampsia may play a role in the deficient placental perfusion associated with this disorder.