Goblet cells: guardians of gut immunity and their role in gastrointestinal diseases

Goblet cells (GCs) are specialised guardians lining the intestine. They play a critical role in gut defence and immune regulation. GCs continuously secrete mucus creating a physical barrier to protect from pathogens while harbouring symbiotic gut bacteria adapted to live within the mucus. GCs also form specialised GC-associated passages in a dynamic and regulated manner to deliver luminal antigens to immune cells, promoting gut tolerance and preventing inflammation. The composition of gut bacteria directly influences GC function, highlighting the intricate interplay between these components of a healthy gut. Indeed, imbalances in the gut microbiome can disrupt GC function, contributing to various gastrointestinal diseases like colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, cystic fibrosis, pathogen infections and liver diseases. This review explores the interplay between GCs and the immune system. We delve into the underlying mechanisms by which GC dysfunction contributes to the development and progression of gastrointestinal diseases. Finally, we examine current and potential treatments that target GCs and represent promising avenues for further investigation.