innate immune response in mucosa

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process of the innate immune response that takes place in the mucosal tissues. [GOC:add, PMID:10719665, PMID:15971105]

The mucosal immune system is the first line of defense against pathogens entering the body through mucosal surfaces, such as the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and urogenital tracts. It is comprised of a complex network of immune cells, including epithelial cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and lymphocytes, as well as secreted molecules, such as antibodies and cytokines. The innate immune response in mucosa is characterized by its rapid and non-specific nature, relying on pre-existing mechanisms to recognize and eliminate pathogens.

Upon pathogen encounter, epithelial cells in the mucosa play a crucial role in initiating the innate immune response. They express pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from bacteria, viral double-stranded RNA, or fungal glucans. This recognition triggers the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-8 and TNF-α, which attract other immune cells to the site of infection.

Macrophages are phagocytic cells that engulf and destroy pathogens. They express a wide range of PRRs and can also be activated by signals from other immune cells. Activated macrophages release a variety of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α, which amplify the inflammatory response and contribute to the recruitment of neutrophils.

Neutrophils are another type of phagocytic cell that rapidly migrate to the site of infection. They are highly effective at killing bacteria and fungi through the release of antimicrobial peptides and reactive oxygen species.

Dendritic cells are antigen-presenting cells that capture pathogens and migrate to lymph nodes to activate adaptive immune responses. They express PRRs and can activate T cells, which are responsible for recognizing and eliminating specific pathogens.

Natural killer (NK) cells are cytotoxic lymphocytes that kill infected cells and tumor cells. They recognize and kill target cells based on the expression of specific surface molecules, such as MHC class I.

In addition to cellular components, the mucosal immune system also relies on a variety of secreted molecules, including antibodies and cytokines. Antibodies are proteins that bind to specific antigens on pathogens and neutralize their activity. They can also recruit other immune cells to the site of infection. Cytokines are small signaling molecules that regulate the activity of other immune cells.

The innate immune response in mucosa is essential for preventing infection and maintaining mucosal homeostasis. It provides a rapid and effective first line of defense against a wide range of pathogens. However, it is also important to note that the innate immune response can sometimes be over-activated, leading to excessive inflammation and tissue damage. This can occur in the context of autoimmune diseases or allergies.'
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Proteins (5)

Compounds (60)