Intestinal microbiota-epithelial-mucosal immune system axis

The intestinal microbiota-epithelial-mucosal immune system axis is a complex biological network essential for maintaining host homeostasis and immune tolerance (Belkaid & Hand, 2014). It consists of the diverse community of microorganisms (microbiota), the physical and chemical barrier formed by intestinal epithelial cells and mucus, and the specialized mucosal immune system, including the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) (Mowat & Agace, 2014). This system functions to facilitate nutrient absorption and protect against pathogens while preventing excessive inflammatory responses to commensal bacteria (Vancamelbeke & Vermeire, 2017). Dysregulation of this axis, often characterized by increased intestinal permeability and dysbiosis, is a primary driver in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as systemic metabolic and autoimmune disorders (Thursby & Juge, 2017). Therapeutic strategies targeting this system range from microbial modulation via probiotics and fecal transplants to the use of monoclonal antibodies like Infliximab or Vedolizumab that inhibit specific inflammatory pathways or leukocyte trafficking within the mucosal environment (Okumura & Takeda, 2018).

Other names

Gut-microbiota-immune axisIntestinal mucosal barrierGut-immune systemIntestinal barrier system

Modulation of the intestinal environment through microbial restoration, inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, or blockade of leukocyte trafficking to the gut mucosa.