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Updated: May 11, 2026
11:34
Induced Differentiation of M Cell-like Cells in Human Stem Cell-derived Ileal Enteroid Monolayers
Published on: July 26, 2019
Microfold (M) cells: important immunosurveillance posts in the intestinal epithelium
N A Mabbott1, D S Donaldson, H Ohno
1The Roslin Institute and Royal-Dick School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, Scotland, UK. neil.mabbott@roslin.ed.ac.uk
Mucosal Immunology
|May 23, 2013
Summary
Microfold cells (M cells) transport antigens in the gut, crucial for mucosal immunity. Recent research advances our understanding of M cell development, function, and their role in immunity and disease.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gastroenterology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Microfold cells (M cells) in Peyer's patches facilitate antigen transcytosis across the gut epithelium, initiating mucosal immune responses.
- Understanding M cell development and function is key to improving mucosal vaccine efficacy and understanding host-pathogen interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in M cell biology.
- To highlight factors influencing M cell maturation, function, and their role in immunity and disease.
- To discuss the application of M cell knowledge in vaccine development.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes current research on M cell biology.
- Focuses on host genetics, M cell maturation, and functional aspects.
- Examines M cell interactions with pathogens and their use in vaccine strategies.
Main Results:
- Host genes significantly control M cell functional maturation.
- M cell biology is better understood in steady-state and aging conditions.
- Specific molecules on M cells act as "immunosurveillance" receptors.
- Pathogens exploit M cells for host infection.
- Targeting antigens to M cells shows promise for enhancing mucosal vaccines.
Conclusions:
- Advances in understanding M cell biology are rapidly progressing.
- Knowledge of M cells is crucial for developing effective mucosal vaccines.
- M cells play a dual role in host defense and pathogen entry.
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