Gut microbiome and intestinal mucosa

The gut microbiome and intestinal mucosa represent a complex biological system consisting of trillions of commensal microorganisms and the multi-layered physical barrier of the gastrointestinal tract. This interface is critical for maintaining systemic homeostasis by facilitating nutrient absorption, synthesizing essential vitamins, and providing a primary defense against pathogens [NIH, 2012; Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 2012]. The intestinal mucosa, composed of epithelial cells, a mucus layer, and underlying immune cells, works in tandem with the microbiota to regulate local and systemic immune responses [Science, 2012]. Dysregulation of this system, often characterized by microbial dysbiosis or impaired barrier integrity, is a central driver in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases, metabolic disorders, and certain cancers [The Lancet, 2020; Frontiers in Immunology, 2021]. Therapeutic interventions targeting this system range from broad-spectrum antibiotics and probiotics to targeted biologics that stabilize the mucosal barrier or modulate specific microbial metabolites [Gastroenterology, 2017].

Other names

Gut-microbiota-mucosa axisIntestinal barrier systemGut microbiome-host interfaceIntestinal mucosal barrier

Modulation of microbial diversity, restoration of epithelial tight junctions, and regulation of mucosal immune cell trafficking.