Host innate immune and gut microbiota system

The host innate immune and gut microbiota system is a complex, bidirectional communication network that maintains physiological homeostasis and regulates immune responses. This system involves the interaction between commensal microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract and the host's innate immune cells, such as macrophages, dendritic cells, and epithelial cells, primarily through pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) like Toll-like receptors (TLRs) (Thaiss et al., 2016, Nature). The microbiota produces essential metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which modulate immune cell signaling and maintain the integrity of the intestinal barrier (Koh et al., 2016, Cell). Dysregulation of this crosstalk, often termed dysbiosis, is a key driver in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), metabolic disorders, and autoimmune conditions (Belkaid & Hand, 2014, Science). Furthermore, the composition of the gut microbiota has been shown to significantly influence the efficacy of systemic treatments, particularly cancer immunotherapies like immune checkpoint inhibitors (Gopalakrishnan et al., 2018, Science). Therapeutic interventions targeting this system aim to restore microbial balance and immune tolerance through the use of probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (Khoruts & Sadowsky, 2016, Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology).

Other names

Gut-immune axisMicrobiota-immune system crosstalkIntestinal immune systemGut-microbiome-immune axis

Modulation of microbial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, activation of pattern recognition receptors like Toll-like receptors, and maintenance of intestinal barrier integrity to regulate host inflammatory states.