Neutrophils are key effector cells involved in host defence against invading organisms such as bacteria and fungi. Their over-recruitment, uncontrolled activation and defective removal contribute to the initiation and propagation of many chronic inflammatory conditions. Neutrophil apoptosis is a physiological process that terminates the cells' functional responsiveness and induces phenotypic changes that render them recognizable by phagocytes (e.g. macrophages). Evidence indicates that neutrophil apoptosis and the subsequent removal of these cells by macrophages occur via mechanisms that do not elicit an inflammatory response and that these processes are fundamental for the successful resolution of inflammation. The molecular mechanisms regulating apoptosis in neutrophils are being elucidated and consequently it is now believed that selective induction of neutrophil is a potential target for therapeutic intervention.
