Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 7, 2026

An Intestinal Gut Organ Culture System for Analyzing Host-Microbiota Interactions
Published on: June 30, 2021
The gut microbiota and host immunity synergistically orchestrate colonization resistance
Na Li1,2,3,4, Xiaohuan Guo1,2,3,4,5
1Institute for Immunology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
None:
Colonization resistance is a fundamental host defense mechanism that relies on the synergistic interaction between the gut microbiota and the host immune system to prevent enteric pathogen colonization and infection. This review synthesizes current knowledge of the multifaceted mechanisms governing colonization resistance against intestinal pathogens. We examine how commensal microbes directly suppress pathogens through niche and nutrient competition, contact-dependent inhibition, and the production of antimicrobial compounds and metabolites. From the host perspective, we outline the essential roles of gut barriers, innate and adaptive immunity, and antimicrobial peptides in maintaining microbiota homeostasis while selectively restricting pathogen expansion. We also emphasize the role of IL-22 signaling and its regulation of epithelial glycosylation, which modulates nutrient availability and shapes microbial competitiveness. Finally, we discuss key challenges and future research directions in colonization resistance and related translational research, with the goal of informing novel strategies to prevent and treat intestinal infections and inflammatory diseases.
More Related Videos
10:24Assessing the Viability of a Synthetic Bacterial Consortium on the In Vitro Gut Host-microbe Interface
Published on: July 4, 2018
06:43Studying Microbial Communities In Vivo: A Model of Host-mediated Interaction Between Candida Albicans and Pseudomonas Aeruginosa in the Airways
Published on: January 13, 2016
Related Concept Videos
Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...
Defense Mechanism Against Infection
In addition, many body organ systems have unique defenses against infection. The skin is an intact, multilayered surface preventing invasion by microorganisms unless impaired. Mucous membranes lining the mouth, nose, and eyelids are barriers...
Bacterial Flora of the Large Intestine
The normal gut flora of the colon plays a critical role in generating essential vitamins such as vitamins K, B5, and B7.
Anatomy of the Intestines
Small Intestines
The small intestine is an ~7 meter-long tube with an inner diameter of just 2.5 cm. Since most nutrients are absorbed here, the inner lining of the...
Physiology of Enteric Nervous System and Gut Health