Targeting innate immune collectins & NETs to regulate inflammatory diseases

Innate immune collectins such as surfactant protein A (SP-A), SP-D, mannose-binding lectin and CL-11 are antibodies of the innate immune system. These collectins exert varying responses in circulation and mucosal surfaces, and certain collectins are known to improve immunogenicity of specific antigens. These collectins also interconnect microbes, antigens and dying cells to immune cells. However, the therapeutic potential of collectins has not also been fully explored. I will highlight the untapped therapeutic potentials of these proteins. Recent studies have established that innate immune cells such as neutrophils release neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Emerging evidence indicate that NETs are major regulators of immunogenicity in many infectious, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Regulating NETosis is an important aspect in treating these diseases. I will highlight the advances and therapeutic potentials of collectins and the prospective of regulating NETosis for altering immunogenicity and treating inflammatory diseases..