Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Co-Culture of Murine Small Intestine Epithelial Organoids with Innate Lymphoid Cells
Published on: March 23, 2022
Epithelium: the interplay between innate and Th2 immunity
Katarzyna Bulek1, Shadi Swaidani, Mark Aronica
1Department of Immunology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
Abstract:
Mucosal epithelium functions not only as a physical barrier, but also as a regulator of innate and adaptive immune responses against foreign substances and microorganisms. In particular, epithelial cells have been directly implicated in Th2 responses, serving as a critical interface between innate immune responses and Th2 immunity. Emerging studies have revealed the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which the epithelium modulates Th2 responses through the production of a group of epithelial-derived Th2-driving cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-25, IL-33, and thymic stromal lymphopoietin. These epithelial-derived Th2-driving cytokines execute a regulatory function of the epithelium on mucosal immunity by promoting Th2 responses and maintaining the balance of host immune homeostasis and defense against various pathogens. Dysregulation of these Th2-driving cytokines can lead to detrimental Th2-dependent inflammatory responses, often manifested in various forms of allergic and inflammatory diseases.
Related Concept Videos
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,...
Cell-mediated Immune Responses
T Cell Types and Functions
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
Epithelial Tissues and Their Functions
Epithelial tissues provide the body's first line of protection from physical, chemical, and...
T Cell Activation and Clonal Selection
Naive T cells that have not yet encountered an antigen express two primary CD...
Special Features of Adaptive Immunity
The primary cell types involved in adaptive immunity are T cells and B cells. Each type has a unique role in defending the body against pathogens. T cells are responsible for cell-mediated immunity. They identify and eliminate infected cells directly,...

