Protein citrullination's role in thrombosis: unravelling clot dynamics

Citrullination, a post-translational modification of proteins catalysed by peptidyl-arginine-deiminase (PAD) enzymes, plays a critical role in the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Recent studies highlight its impact on fibrin structure and thrombosis, particularly through the generation of citrullinated fibrinogen, which forms densely packed clots with decreased permeability and increased resistance to lysis. Moreover, other proteins involved in coagulation and fibrinolysis are also affected by citrullination, and citrullinated histones are important in thrombus structure and properties. This Research Topic aims to explore the molecular mechanisms by which citrullination influences innate immune responses and thrombosis, drawing connections between PAD enzyme activity, NET formation, and thrombus structure. Submissions should integrate structural biology with functional assays to define how citrullination dictates the physical properties of innate immune responses and resulting thrombi. Relevant methodological approaches may include structural techniques (e.g., SEM, AFM, SAXS, STORM/STED, MS) to characterize thrombus ultrastructure, fibrin network architecture, and citrullinated protein identification, combined with functional assays (immunofluorescence, ELISA, permeability measurements, turbidity/lysis assays, rheometry, microfluidics/organ-on-chip) to assess NET formation, clot properties, and thrombo(ly)sis under physiological conditions. Submissions that prioritise studies addressing mechanisms of how citrullination dictates the physical properties of the innate immune response and the resulting thrombus in different medical conditions are welcome. This Research Topic aligns with the speciality of 'Frontiers in Immunology' by illuminating how aberrant innate immune responses and coagulation interact, potentially leading to novel therapeutic strategies targeting the PAD enzymes or citrullination processes to modulate deep venous thrombosis and thrombotic complications related to atherosclerosis or autoimmune diseases. This Research Topic welcomes the following submission types, only: - Original Research- Brief Research Report- Review- Mini Review Topic editors: Krasimir Kolev, Rustem Litvinov Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/81108/protein-citrullinations-role-in-thrombosis-unravelling-clot-dynamics