Human Inflammatory Neutrophils Express Genes Encoding Peptidase Inhibitors: Production of Elafin Mediated by NF-κB and CCAAT/Enhancer-Binding Protein β

The concept of plasticity of neutrophils is highlighted by studies showing their ability to transdifferentiate into APCs. In this regard, transdifferentiated neutrophils were found at inflammatory sites of autoimmune arthritis (AIA). Exposure of neutrophils to inflammatory stimuli prolongs their survival, thereby favoring the acquisition of pathophysiologically relevant phenotypes and functions. By using microarrays, quantitative RT-PCR, and...