Neutrophil detox

On page 353, Han and colleagues describe a novel chemical inhibitor that shuts down the production of inflammation-induced oxidants by neutrophils, but does not compromise the ability of the cell to attack invading pathogens. This selective neutrophil disarmament may provide a way to limit the tissue-damaging side effects of neutrophil activation without crippling anti-microbial defenses—a feat presumed by many to be impossible.Neutrophils are among the immune system's earliest responders against invading pathogens. If these cells are missing or unable to function properly, life-threatening bacterial and fungal infections ensue. Neutrophil assault on invading pathogens is mediated in part by the release of reactive oxygen intermediates (ROIs) that damage microbes. But the benefits of this protection come at a cost. The same ROIs that help kill microbes contribute to the tissue damage that...