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Published on: November 18, 2022
Intestinal Barrier Dysfunction in Human Pathology and Aging.
Marcel Cerqueira César Machado1, Fabiano Pinheiro da Silva
1Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Laboratório de Emergências Clínicas (LIM-51), Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 455 sala 3189, CEP 01246-000, São Paulo - SP, Brazil. mccm37@uol.com.br.
The intestinal barrier protects against external threats but disruption can lead to inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Maintaining its selective permeability is vital for nutrient absorption and preventing systemic inflammation and organ damage.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The intestinal barrier is the primary defense against external environmental factors.
- Its disruption is implicated in autoimmune diseases, inflammatory conditions, and systemic inflammation.
- Translocation of gut contents can trigger inflammatory disorders and tissue damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical role of intestinal barrier integrity.
- To discuss the consequences of intestinal barrier dysfunction.
- To emphasize the importance of maintaining selective permeability.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on intestinal barrier function.
- Analysis of mechanisms underlying barrier disruption and its effects.
- Discussion of clinical implications in various diseases.
Main Results:
- Intestinal barrier disruption can lead to local and systemic injuries.
- It plays a role in inflammatory bowel disease, liver diseases, and aging.
- Dysfunction contributes to systemic inflammatory response syndrome affecting multiple organs.
Conclusions:
- Maintaining selective permeability is essential for nutrient absorption and water balance.
- Effective host defense properties prevent intestinal injury and distant organ damage.
- Preserving intestinal barrier integrity is crucial for overall health and preventing systemic inflammation.
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