How to bridle a neutrophil

Recent high-dimensional technologies have enabled the characterization of heterogeneity in the neutrophil compartment at an unprecedented resolution. In this review, we discuss the emerging notion of heterogeneity within the neutrophil pool, and provide a detailed account of evolving concepts in the field. We place special focus on neutrophil differentiation in the bone marrow and plasticity in tissues, describe the limitations that arise when exploring neutrophil heterogeneity using single-cell analyses, and suggest state-of-the-art alternatives to improve their characterization. Finally, we propose strategies arising from these new concepts that may allow us to bridle neutrophil plasticity towards therapeutic benefit.

Automated summary

This review explores the emerging notion of heterogeneity within the neutrophil pool and evolving concepts in the field, focusing on neutrophil differentiation in the bone marrow and plasticity in tissues. It discusses limitations in exploring neutrophil heterogeneity using single-cell analyses and suggests state-of-the-art alternatives to improve their characterization, proposing strategies for therapeutic benefit.