1.
Gut Microbes
; 5(6): 761-5, 2014.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-25483327
ABSTRACT
The intestinal mucosa squares the circle by allowing efficient nutrient absorption while generating a firm barrier toward the enteric microbiota, enteropathogenic microorganisms and high luminal concentrations of potent immunostimulatory molecules. The mucus layer together with local antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory peptides significantly contribute to this ability. Here we summarize the recent progress made to better understand the critical importance of this dynamic, complex and highly structured anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial barrier.