Enteric neuroimmune interactions in health and disease

The intestine contains a dense intrinsic nervous system that is closely integrated with local immune cells to coordinate motility, barrier defense, and tissue repair. Recent studies, primarily in mice and supported by emerging human evidence, have identified diverse enteric neuroimmune pathways through which enteric neurons shape immune cell responses, while immune cells, in turn, influence neuronal survival and function across distinct intestinal compartments. These bidirectional interactions are increasingly implicated in intestinal disorders, including Hirschsprung's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and infection-induced dysmotility. In this review, we summarize the anatomical basis and principal mechanisms of enteric neuroimmune communication, highlight recent advances in the field, and discuss key unresolved questions and future directions.