Intestinal microbiota and host immune cells

The intestinal microbiota and host immune cells represent a complex, bidirectional signaling network known as the gut-immune axis (Belkaid & Hand, 2014, Science). This system is fundamental to maintaining systemic homeostasis, as the microbiota provides essential signals for the maturation and regulation of the host's innate and adaptive immune systems (Round & Mazmanian, 2009, Nature Reviews Immunology). Commensal bacteria interact with host cells via pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and the secretion of metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which influence the differentiation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and pro-inflammatory Th17 cells (Smith et al., 2013, Science). Dysbiosis, or the imbalance of this microbial community, is linked to a wide range of pathologies, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), metabolic syndrome, and altered responses to cancer immunotherapy (Lynch & Pedersen, 2016, NEJM; Gopalakrishnan et al., 2018, Science). Therapeutic strategies targeting this axis include probiotics, prebiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and engineered microbial consortia designed to restore immune tolerance or enhance anti-tumor immunity (Khoury et al., 2019, Frontiers in Immunology).

Other names

Gut-immune axisMicrobiota-immune system interactionIntestinal microbiome-host immunityGut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) interaction

Modulation of host immune cell differentiation (e.g., Treg/Th17 balance) and activity through microbial-derived metabolites (e.g., short-chain fatty acids) and pattern recognition receptor (PRR) signaling.