The implications of neutrophil extracellular traps in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis and atherothrombosis.

IMPACT STATEMENT: Fatal consequences of atherosclerosis and atherothrombosis give research in this field great importance. This review provides recent information about the implications of neutrophils in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis and atherothrombosis via formation and release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), thereby enhancing our understanding on how the process of atherosclerosis develops and how its consequences occur. Information provided in this review suggests NETs as a new therapeutic target and a rich point for research. This review gives answers to questions about the mechanisms of atherosclerosis and atherothrombosis progression through studying the implications of NETs in these processes.