Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Application of a Mouse Ligated Peyer’s Patch Intestinal Loop Assay to Evaluate Bacterial Uptake by M cells
Published on: December 17, 2011
Sampling of the intestinal microbiota by epithelial M cells
Joseph M Pickard1, Alexander V Chervonsky
1Department of Pathology, University of Chicago, 5841 South Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
None:
Sampling of intestinal pathogens and commensals is an important aspect of the gut immune system, and is accomplished through the action of specialized epithelial M cells. Although their sampling abilities have been appreciated for decades, few molecular details of their development or function are known. This review discusses several recent advances in our understanding of these cells, including signals controlling their development, the mechanisms they use for taking up microbes, and their exploitation by certain pathogens. Future research directions are discussed, including development of oral vaccines.
Related Concept Videos
Renewal of Intestinal Stem Cells
Microbiota of the Stomach and Small Intestine
Microbiota of the Large Intestine

