Red Blood Cells Homeostatically Bind Mitochondrial DNA through TLR9 to Maintain Quiescence and to Prevent Lung Injury

Abstract

RBCs homeostatically bind mtDNA, and RBC-mediated DNA scavenging is essential in mitigating lung injury after CpG-DNA. Our data suggest a role for RBCs in regulating lung inflammation during disease states where cf-mtDNA is elevated, such as sepsis and trauma.