Barrier function

Barrier function is the physiological property of a tissue, such as skin, gut epithelium, or blood-brain endothelium, to separate internal and external environments, regulate the passage of molecules, ions, and pathogens, and maintain tissue homeostasis. It is not a molecule or receptor, but rather the emergent result of the coordinated actions of various molecular components, such as tight junction proteins (e.g., claudins, occludins), cell membrane lipids, antimicrobial peptides, cell-cell adhesion molecules, and associated signaling pathways. Barrier function plays a critical role in protecting against infection, inflammation, and chemical damage, and its failure is implicated in the pathogenesis of diverse diseases, from eczema and inflammatory bowel disease to cancer and neurodegenerative conditions[1][2][3][4][5][6][9].

Other names

Barrier integrityBarrier propertyParacellular barrierPhysiological barrierPhysical barrierBiological barrier

Enhancement of tight junctions or lipid barrier; Modulation of immune responses (anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory agents); Modification of epithelial or endothelial permeability