Scientists at the University of Liege in Belgium have discovered the presence of DNA traps in the lungs of patients who have died from COVID-19. They are released into the airways, lung tissue and blood vessels, leading to severe complications. The new cause of death of patients from coronavirus was announced in a press release published on the EurekAlert website!
DNA traps are generated by immune cells called neutrophils, which act as the first line of defense against infection. When over-activated, neutrophils can be toxic, provoking autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases. Neutrophils are also able to release their own DNA during netosis, a form of cell death. When released massively, these DNA traps used by the body to fight off viruses can cause tissue damage.
Scientists have found traces of netosis in blood vessels, lung tissue and airways in the form of fibrin-rich clots that provoke thrombosis (blockage of blood vessels) and lung damage. This process occurs as a result of uncontrolled activation of the immune system, which also leads to a cytokine storm.
At the moment, experts are conducting research on the effect of netosis on other organs, including the heart. This process itself can be mitigated by some pharmacological drugs, for example, dornase alfa, which is used to treat cystic fibrosis.
