Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026

An Intestinal Gut Organ Culture System for Analyzing Host-Microbiota Interactions
Published on: June 30, 2021
Innate immune recognition of the indigenous microbial flora
1Department of Immunobiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA. seth.rakoff-nahoum@yale.edu
Abstract:
Our studies have focused on understanding the mechanisms of interactions between the indigenous intestinal flora and the mammalian host in both physiological and nonphysiological conditions. In particular, we have focused on the function of innate microbial pattern recognition by Toll-like receptors in the context of tissue injury and repair, spontaneous colitis, and postnatal development.
Related Concept Videos
Defense Mechanism Against Infection
In addition, many body organ systems have unique defenses against infection. The skin is an intact, multilayered surface preventing invasion by microorganisms unless impaired. Mucous membranes lining the mouth, nose, and eyelids are barriers...
Introduction to Innate and Adaptive Immunity
Innate immunity is the body's natural, nonspecific defense system that acts quickly to protect against pathogens. It incorporates physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes and cellular elements such as phagocytes and natural killer cells. This part of our immune system provides an immediate,...
Introduction to the Human Microbiota
Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...
What is the Immune System?
The Skin Microbiota

