Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Participate in the Pathogenesis of Lupus Through S100A10‐Mediated Regulatory T‐Cell Differentiation and Functional Abnormalities

In systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), neutrophil dysregulation and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) formation contribute to disease pathogenesis, potentially worsening the autoimmune response. Although research indicates NETs' involvement in various autoimmune conditions, their relationship with regulatory T cells (Tregs) in SLE remains elusive. In this study, in vivo experiments were involved in administering NET injections to C57BL/6 and MRL/Ipr mice. In vitro, a co-culture system facilitated interaction between Tregs and NETs. Proteomic analysis elucidated NET composition, while RNA sequencing delineated their impact on Treg differentiation. We demonstrated that increased NET levels correlate inversely with Treg abundance in SLE patients, influencing both their proportion and functionality. NET administration reduced Treg levels and induced lupus-like symptoms in C57BL/6 mice, exacerbating symptoms in MRL/Ipr mice. DNase I treatment mitigated NET effects, restoring Treg levels and alleviating symptoms. RNA sequencing revealed altered gene expression in naïve CD4