Enteric immune system

The **enteric immune system** refers to the complex network of immune cells and tissues located within the gastrointestinal tract. It is not a single molecule, receptor, or protein but rather a collective term for all components involved in mucosal immunity in the gut. This includes specialized populations such as IgA-secreting plasma cells, T cells (including regulatory T cells), macrophages, dendritic cells, and innate lymphoid cells[5][9]. The enteric immune system interacts closely with other systems—most notably the enteric nervous system and intestinal microbiota—to maintain tolerance to harmless antigens while mounting responses against pathogens[2][4]. Its proper function is essential for maintaining intestinal homeostasis and protecting against infections; dysregulation contributes to diseases like inflammatory bowel disease and other GI disorders[2][4][9]. **Note:** "Enteric immune system" is not a canonical therapeutic target such as a receptor or enzyme; it describes an entire functional subsystem within mucosal immunology. Therefore, it does not have an abbreviation or specific interacting drugs/mechanisms/biomarkers typical for molecular targets. If you are seeking information on specific molecules within this subsystem (e.g., "Interleukin 10 receptor," "Toll-like receptor 4"), those would be appropriate canonical targets instead.

Other names

Intestinal immune systemGut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT)Mucosal immune system of the gut