Intestinal epithelial cell surface

The intestinal epithelial cell surface constitutes the interface between the gut lumen and the body, providing a physical and functional barrier through tight junctions, specialized membrane proteins (such as transporters, enzymes, and receptors), and extracellular glycocalyx structures[1][4][2]. It is formed by a single layer of columnar IECs, including enterocytes, goblet cells, Paneth cells, and enteroendocrine cells[1][3]. The cell surface is highly dynamic, involved in nutrient absorption, secretion, protection from pathogens, and immune crosstalk[1][4][5]. Alterations or damage to the cell surface are associated with intestinal disorders including inflammatory bowel disease, infections, and cancer[2][5][6]. While numerous drugs and therapies target specific cell surface proteins of IECs, the "cell surface" itself is not a standard molecular target.

Other names

Intestinal epithelial membraneIEC surfaceintestinal mucosal cell surface