UVA and UVB Radiation Induce the Formation of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps by Human Polymorphonuclear Cells

Abstract

Prolonged exposure of the skin to ultraviolet radiation (UV) leads to its damage and loss of protective properties. This condition called photoaging of the skin is caused by a number of destructive factors, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and proteolytic enzymes that cause damage to the extracellular matrix, e.g. collagen fibers. Many cells of the immune system, including neutrophils, are involved in the photoaging process. The presence of neutrophils in the skin exposed to UV irradiation is known; however, the mechanism of neutrophil activity at these conditions remains unclear. In our study, we focused on the ability of neutrophils to release neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and the role of these structures in the photoaging process. NET release occurs in response to various stimuli; however, we hereby showed that the UVA and UVB radiation that reaches the Earth's surface could activate the mechanism of netosis. UV-induced netosis was much faster than that activated by chemical or biological factors; however, it also occurred due to the production of ROS, known signal mediators in netosis. In this work, we also identified the probable netosis signaling pathway involved in the neutrophil response to UV. The participation of NET components may explain the ongoing process of skin photoaging, but it is also important to indicate netosis as a potential target for skin protection therapy. Antioxidants tested in this work, such as N-acetylcysteine, ethamsylate, as well as vitamin B1 (thiamine), can successfully inhibit UV-induced netosis, and thus be used as protective components against the negative effects of solar radiation.