Immune Response (Intestinal Mucosa)

The immune response in the intestinal mucosa refers to the complex network of innate and adaptive immune mechanisms that protect the gut from pathogens, maintain tolerance to harmless antigens (such as food and commensal bacteria), and preserve intestinal homeostasis. This system includes physical barriers (epithelial lining, mucus layer), Gut-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (GALT), mucosal immune cells (dendritic cells, T cells, B cells, ILCs), and secretory IgA (SIgA). Key mechanisms involve pattern recognition receptors (TLRs), cytokine signaling, and regulation by regulatory T cells. Disruption or dysregulation can lead to inflammatory bowel diseases, food allergies, and increased susceptibility to infections.