Abstract
Presentation Description :
I will share our observations on the dual role of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) in controlling HSV-1 ocular infection. The presentation will introduce NETs and highlight their growing importance in the medical world as a therapeutic target for managing inflammatory responses more effectively. I will present our model for studying NETosis during herpetic eye infections and discuss our intriguing findings. These findings reveal that NET formation acts as an initial immune response to HSV-1 infection in the cornea. Moreover, I'll delve into the dual role of NETosis: its involvement in both reducing the viral load and in causing corneal inflammation. Our results offer fresh insights into the molecular details of NET formation in response to HSV-1 infection. Additionally, I will provide evidence suggesting that NET formation is a consistent response across mice, rabbits, and guinea pigs when faced with herpes infection. I'll also share clinical results from a collaborative study that further underscores the significance of NETosis in HSV-1 ocular infections. We anticipate completing additional studies soon and will discuss our novel observations regarding neutrophil-mediated protection in the contralateral eye. This could shed light on the enduring question of why most herpes infections manifest unilaterally. In conclusion, NETosis is a swift and effective defense against HSV-1 infection, safeguarding against the primary infection and also curtailing its replication and pathology. Understanding NETosis offers crucial insights for devising potential therapeutic strategies.
This abstract was presented at the 2024 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Seattle, WA, May 5-9, 2024.