IL-9 signaling as key driver of chronic inflammation in mucosal immunity

The epithelial cell layer of the mucosa in the respiratory and the gastrointestinal tracts covers an area of several hundred square meters in adults. This large surface of epithelial cells exposes the underlying mucosal immune system to potentially harmful agents including allergens and infectious agents. To prevent uncontrolled inflammation and maintain homeostasis, mucosal surfaces have highly structured immune systems that control the balance between immune responsiveness and non-responsiveness (tolerance) to environmental agents [1,2].
Source: Cytokine and Growth Factor Reviews - Category: Molecular Biology Authors: Tags: Mini review Source Type: research