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Updated: Aug 7, 2026

Isolation and Flow Cytometric Characterization of Murine Small Intestinal Lymphocytes
Published on: May 8, 2016
Anatomical basis of tolerance and immunity to intestinal antigens
1Department of Immunology and Bacteriology, Western Infirmary, Glasgow G11 6NT, UK. a.m.mowat@clinmed.gla.ac.uk
Abstract:
The intestinal immune system has to discriminate between harmful and beneficial antigens. Although strong protective immunity is essential to prevent invasion by pathogens, equivalent responses against dietary proteins or commensal bacteria can lead to chronic disease. These responses are normally prevented by a complex interplay of regulatory mechanisms. This article reviews the unique aspects of the local microenvironment of the intestinal immune system and discuss how these promote the development of regulatory responses that ensure the maintenance of homeostasis in the gut.
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