The Importance of Gut Bacteria on Mucosal Immunity

Course description

Mucosal tissues of the digestive, respiratory and genitourinary tracts are open to the external environment and are the main entry points of most of the world’s major infectious pathogens. Consequently, these organs are defended by a dedicated immune system representing 70 per cent of our total immune cells. The organization, function and significance of the mucosal immune system is discussed with a focus on gut immunity and the importance of gut bacteria that influence its development and function. An update on recent research on dysfunctions in gut immunity that contribute to inflammatory gut diseases will be presented.