Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 14, 2026

Using Unfixed, Frozen Tissues to Study Natural Mucin Distribution
Published on: September 21, 2012
Immunity at mucosal surfaces
1Department of Oral Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610, USA.
Abstract:
The mucosae form a barrier between our bodies and a hostile external environment. Diseases and extrinsic factors which impair mucosal function may lead to serious consequences. The mucosal immune system is the primary mediator of specific immunity at mucosal surfaces. As such, it is responsible for maintaining homeostasis and for defense against both overt and opportunistic pathogens. For this reason, it is also the target of many new vaccine strategies for the induction of mucosal immunity. This brief review will examine the mucosal immune system, its role in maintaining the integrity of the mucosa, and some of the strategies aimed at enhancing specific immunity.
Related Concept Videos
Cell-mediated Immune Responses
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...
Surface Membrane Barriers
The outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, is a robust barrier comprising layers of closely packed keratinized cells. This dense arrangement prevents microbes from penetrating the body. The periodic shedding of epidermal cells...
Antigens Involved in Adaptive Immunity
Complete Antigens
Complete antigens possess both immunogenicity and reactivity.
Development of Immunocompetence
The initial cells that migrate from the fetal thymus settle within the skin and epithelial tissues lining the mouth, digestive tract, and in females, the uterus and vagina. These cells, including skin-based dendritic cells, serve as antigen-presenting cells, playing a key role in T cell activation.
Subsequent T...
Immune Response Against Viral Pathogens
NK Cells
NK cells are a crucial part of our innate immune system, acting as the first line of defense against viral infections. These cells can recognize and kill infected cells without prior exposure to the virus, effectively slowing down the spread of infection. Additionally, NK cells produce proinflammatory...

