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Intestinal epithelial function: the case for immunophysiological regulation. Cells and mediators (1)
1Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Digestive Diseases and Sciences
|August 1, 1993
Summary
Immune cells significantly influence intestinal physiology and function, particularly ion secretion. This review highlights the roles of various immune cells and their signaling molecules in regulating the intestinal epithelium.
Area of Science:
- Immunophysiology
- Gastroenterology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Epithelial function was traditionally attributed to endocrine and nervous systems.
- Emerging evidence highlights the crucial role of the immune system in intestinal physiology.
- Immune cells and their mediators are key regulators of intestinal epithelial functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current immunophysiological data on intestinal epithelial control.
- To focus on the role of immune cells in intestinal ion secretion.
- To emphasize cell cooperation in intestinal homeostasis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of immunophysiological studies.
- Analysis of data on immunocompetent cells and their mediators.
- Synthesis of information on cell cooperation and integration.
Main Results:
- Immune cells, including lymphocytes, mast cells, and phagocytes, actively regulate intestinal epithelial function.
- Chemical messengers such as biogenic amines, eicosanoids, and cytokines are critical mediators.
- Cellular cooperation and integration are central to immune-mediated control of intestinal physiology.
Conclusions:
- The immune system is an integral component of intestinal epithelial regulation.
- Understanding immunophysiology is essential for comprehending intestinal function, especially ion secretion.
- Cell-cell communication and coordination among immune and epithelial cells are vital for maintaining gut health.