Nothing but NETs: Cytokine adsorption correlates with lower circulating nucleosomes and is associated with decreased primary graft dysfunction

Abstract

Elevated levels of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have been reported in primary graft dysfunction, making methods to reduce or remove them highly valuable. The mechanisms behind primary graft dysfunction (PGD) remain rudimentarily understood but its relation to higher rates of acute and chronic rejection necessitates the development of preventative treatments. This case series explores the use of a cytokine adsorber during lung transplantation with the focus of reducing circulating nucleosome levels as a measure of NETs. Treated patients showed reduced levels of circulating nucleosomes and remained free from PGD and histopathological signs of acute rejection at 1- and 3-month post-transplant. In contrast, patients without the adsorber experienced higher levels of circulating nucleosomes, PGD grades 1 and 3, and histopathological signs of acute rejection. Using a cytokine adsorber during transplantation may provide a reduced systemic inflammatory state with lower levels of NETs and consequently support graft acceptance.

Keywords: NETs; cytokine adsorption; cytokines; lung transplantation; primary graft dysfunction.