Neutrophils remove bacterial and fungal pathogens through a process known as phagocytosis. Recognition of invading microbial pathogens is mediated by receptors present on the neutrophil surface, such as PRRs (e.g., TLRs) and opsonic receptors, which recognize host proteins that are deposited on the microbial surface.

What role does neutrophils play in bacterial infection?

Neutrophils have a well-established role during fungal and extracellular bacterial infections where they promote bacterial clearance through phagocytosis, production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (6, 7).

How do neutrophils kill bacteria and prevent the spread of infection from an infected wound?

Activated neutrophils help prevent wound infection by generating reactive oxygen species and producing proteases and antimicrobial peptides. These substances kill and degrade potentially pathogenic microbes, but reactive oxygen species and proteases, in particular, can cause tissue damage when released extracellularly.