Neutrophil in viral infections, friend or foe?

Virus Res. 2013 Jan;171(1):1-7. doi: 10.1016/j.virusres.2012.11.002. Epub 2012 Nov 21.

Abstract

Polymorphonuclear leukocytes or neutrophils are the first immune cells to the site of injury and microbial infection. Neutrophils are crucial players in controlling bacterial and fungal infections, and in particular secondary infections, by phagocytosis, degranulation and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). While neutrophils have been shown to play important roles in viral pathogenesis, there is a lack of detailed investigation. In this article, we will review recent progresses toward understanding the role of neutrophils in viral pathogenesis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Host-Pathogen Interactions
  • Humans
  • Neutrophils / immunology*
  • Neutrophils / virology
  • Virus Diseases / immunology*
  • Virus Diseases / virology