Injury of Intestinal Mucosal Barrier Function and Its Restitution

A critical function of the intestinal mucosa is to form a barrier that separates intestinal contents from the interstitium.The single layer of intestinal epithelial cells serves as a dynamic interface between the host and external environment.In addition to intestinal tract comprising the largest surface area of the body,the intestinal mucosa is constantly exposed to a vast array of microbes,food antigens,and toxins.It must accommodate the symbiotic bacteria and maintain mucosal dynamic equilibrium by controlling inflammatory response,indentifying danger signals of potential harmful pathogens.Therefore,a better understanding of the intestinal mucosa barrier structure and function in healthy and disease states will develop new ideas in treatment of acute or chronic disesases.