Regulation of miRNA-155-5p ameliorates NETosis in pulmonary fibrosis rat model via inhibiting its target cytokines IL-1β, TNF-α and TGF-β1

•Neutrophils infiltration and NETosis may accompany idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.•Bioinformatics analysis proves the target encoding genes of miR-155.•MiR-155 regulation by Cap improves inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, TNF-α and TGF-ß1.•Downregulation of miR-155 by Cap inhibits NETs activity markers PAD-4 and NE.•Regulation of miR-155 expression could hinder NETs production and pulmonary damage.