Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 6, 2026

05:14
Assessment of Gut Barrier Integrity in Mice Using Fluorescein-Isothiocyanate-Labeled Dextran
Published on: November 18, 2022
Gut permeability and food allergies.
1Division of Gastroenterology, University Hospital, Catholic University Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Summary
Intestinal permeability is crucial for oral tolerance. Increased permeability, driven by allergic reactions and IgE-CD23 transport, can worsen food allergies and sensitization.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
- Allergy Research
Background:
- Intestinal permeability balances nutrient absorption and antigen exclusion for immune tolerance.
- Dysregulation of epithelial barrier mechanisms can lead to food allergies in susceptible individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of intestinal permeability in oral tolerance.
- To explore mechanisms damaging the intestinal barrier during allergic reactions.
- To discuss the impact of increased intestinal permeability on dietary antigen sensitization.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating intestinal permeability.
- Analysis of IgE-CD23-mediated transport in allergic sensitization.
- Examination of inflammatory mediator effects on epithelial barrier function.
Main Results:
- Proper intestinal permeability is vital for oral tolerance induction.
- Allergic reactions and IgE-CD23 transport amplify allergen passage.
- Released inflammatory mediators further compromise the intestinal barrier, perpetuating inflammation.
Conclusions:
- Increased intestinal permeability contributes to the breakdown of oral tolerance.
- Elevated intestinal permeability may promote sensitization to dietary antigens.
- Understanding these mechanisms is key for managing food allergies.
Related Concept Videos
Factors Influencing Drug Absorption: Disease States and Pharmacology
Multiple disease states can significantly influence the oral drug absorption process by affecting blood flow and the functionality of the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Various GI diseases, including conditions that alter GI motility, such as diarrhea, decreased acid secretions (achlorhydria), and infections, have been associated with reduced drug absorption.
Substances such as alcohol and specific drugs, including antineoplastics, can also negatively impact drug absorption. For instance,...
Substances such as alcohol and specific drugs, including antineoplastics, can also negatively impact drug absorption. For instance,...
Drug Absorption: Factors Affecting GI Absorption
The process of oral drug absorption can be influenced by several factors. Weakly acidic drugs tend to be absorbed more readily from the stomach due to their nonionized state. However, absorption may be less efficient in the upper intestine, where drugs are often ionized. Interestingly, despite the stomach's apparent advantage for drug absorption, its mucous layer can hinder diffusion. Its surface area is also smaller than the intestine's, which can further slow down the absorption rate.
In...
In...
Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiota
The human gut microbiome includes a diverse array of microbial species, including beneficial commensals and opportunistic pathogens, which interact to support host health. These microbes contribute to essential functions such as nutrient metabolism, immune system modulation, and maintenance of intestinal barrier integrity. However, disruptions to this equilibrium—referred to as dysbiosis—can have widespread physiological consequences.Dysbiosis is often characterized by reduced microbial...
Carrier-Mediated Transport
Carrier-mediated transport is a pivotal process in drug absorption, particularly for lipid-insoluble drugs, and encompasses facilitated diffusion and active transport. Facilitated diffusion allows drugs to move along their concentration gradient without energy expenditure, while active transport utilizes ATP to drive drug movement against this gradient.
Active transport involves two types of membrane-spanning transporters: uptake and efflux. Uptake transporters are expressed in the small...
Active transport involves two types of membrane-spanning transporters: uptake and efflux. Uptake transporters are expressed in the small...
Other Disorders of Digestive System
The gastrointestinal tract is susceptible to various disorders. If the lower esophageal sphincter is damaged, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation of the lining. This condition is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (known as heartburn) and may cause chest pain and difficulty swallowing. In the stomach, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin, chronic alcohol consumption, bacterial infections such as Helicobacter...
Gut-Brain Axis
The gut–brain axis is a bidirectional communication system that connects the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. This interaction is mediated through multiple pathways, including the vagus nerve, hormonal signals, immune responses, and chemical messengers produced by gut microbes.Microbial Contributions to Brain FunctionGut microbiota contributes significantly to brain function by producing neuroactive compounds. These include neuroactive compounds that influence neurotransmitters such as...
