The research article discusses a study aimed at visualizing and identifying Neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formations in cases of septic synovitis and peritonitis in horses. Using immunofluorescence microscopy, researchers were able to demonstrate the potential of NETs as a tool to understand and investigate septic inflammation in horses.

Objective of the Research

• The primary goal of the study was to determine if NETs could be visualized in septic equine synovial and peritoneal fluid samples, by using immunofluorescence with antibodies against citrullinated histone H3 (Cit-H3) and myeloperoxidase (MPO).
• The identification and quantification of NETs in clinical samples from horses with septic synovitis and peritonitis, which according to the authors had not been explored previously, could aid in detecting infectious processes.

Method and Results

• The researchers examined a total of 9 synovial and 4 peritoneal fluid samples from horses.
• They used a simple counting technique for quantifying NET percentages, which is appropriate for high-quality, well-preserved, and stained cytospin smears.
• NETs were found in all septic samples tested and were absent in a non-septic sample. The researchers made the observation that Cit-H3 immunolabeling was more effective at visualizing NETs compared to MPO immunolabeling.

Significance of the Research Findings

• The study showed that NETs are present in all septic equine synovial and peritoneal fluid samples and could, therefore, be used as a marker for infectious processes.
• Additionally, the researchers found that the staining method using the Cit-H3 antibody was superior to MPO for visualizing NETs, which could have implications in the diagnostic approach of septic synovitis and peritonitis in horses.

Potential Applications

• The study provides a potential new way to diagnose and understand septic inflammation in horses through the identification and quantification of NETs.
• This method could potentially aid in distinguishing between septic and non-septic inflammation, thereby enhancing the diagnostic accuracy and enabling better clinical management of these conditions in horses.