Gut Epithelial and Immune Cells

This term refers collectively to the diverse populations of **intestinal epithelial cells** and **immune cells** that reside within or near the gut lining. *Intestinal epithelial cells* include specialized types such as enterocytes, goblet cells, Paneth cells, enteroendocrine cells, microfold (M) cells, and tuft cells, all of which form a barrier between the gut lumen and underlying tissue and mediate interactions with microbes and immune cells[2][5][6][7]. *Gut immune cells* encompass innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), T cells (including many unconventional subtypes), B cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages, which collectively police the gut for pathogens, mount immune responses, and help maintain tolerance to commensal microbes and food antigens[1][4][3]. Disruption in the communication or function of these cells is linked to diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer[3][5]. Because this entry refers to entire populations of cells and not a single molecular entity, it cannot be mapped to a specific canonical molecular target (e.g., receptor, enzyme, transporter), and entries for drug interaction, mechanisms of action, or specific biomarkers are not applicable.

Other names

intestinal epithelial cells and intestinal immune cellsgut lining cells and mucosal immune cells