Mucosal

Mucosal is a term that refers to the moist tissue that lines certain parts of the inside of your body. It can be found in your nose, mouth, lungs, and the urinary and digestive tracts. Mucosal tissues are a major site of entry for many pathogens, and the immune responses that are initiated at these sites are critical in determining the outcome of infection.

Anatomy

Mucosal tissues are composed of one or more layers of epithelial cells that are connected by tight junctions. The top layer of these cells is often covered with a layer of mucus. The mucus layer acts as a physical barrier to prevent the entry of pathogens, and it also contains various antimicrobial substances and immune cells that can neutralize or kill invading microbes.

Function

The primary function of the mucosal tissues is to protect the body from pathogens. They do this by producing mucus, which traps pathogens and prevents them from reaching the underlying tissues. The mucus also contains antibodies and other immune cells that can neutralize or kill the pathogens.

In addition to their protective function, mucosal tissues also play a role in the absorption of nutrients from the food we eat. The cells of the intestinal mucosa, for example, are specialized for the absorption of different types of nutrients.

Mucosal Immunity

Mucosal immunity is a branch of the immune system that protects the body from pathogens at the mucosal surfaces. It involves both innate and adaptive immune responses. The innate immune responses provide immediate protection against pathogens, while the adaptive immune responses provide long-term protection and can "remember" previous infections.

Mucosal immunity is unique in several ways. For example, it has its own system of antigen presentation and T cell activation, and it preferentially induces the production of certain types of antibodies. It also involves specialized types of immune cells and tissues, such as M cells, Peyer's patches, and mucosal-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT).

Diseases

Several diseases can affect the mucosal tissues, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease. These diseases are characterized by chronic inflammation of the mucosal tissues, which can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

Infections of the mucosal tissues are also common. These can be caused by a variety of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Some examples of mucosal infections include sinusitis, pneumonia, and gastroenteritis.

See Also

• Mucous membrane
• Mucosal vaccine
• Mucosal delivery

Mucosal Resources
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