Neutrophil extracellular trap clearance by synovial macrophages in gout

BACKGROUND: Monosodium urate (MSU) crystals, i.e., the central etiological factors in gouty arthritis, induce the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). We investigated whether synovial macrophages could clear NETs as a self-resolution mechanism in acute gouty arthritis. METHODS: macrophages of patients with gouty arthritis. RESULTS: macrophages cultured with NETs did not show a significant induction in pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. CONCLUSION: Synovial fluid macrophages may play an important role in the resolution of MSU crystal-induced gouty inflammation by clearing NETs without causing any significant immunological response.