European Immunology

Mucosal Immunity & Barrier Protection Mechanisms

Mucosal surfaces form the body’s largest interface with the external environment, hosting specialized immune systems that protect against pathogens while maintaining tolerance to harmless antigens. Research highlights the critical role of epithelial integrity, innate lymphoid cells, mucosal antibodies, tissue-resident T cells and microbiota-derived signals in shaping immune outcomes. Dysregulation can lead to chronic inflammation, allergies or susceptibility to infections. Therapeutic advancements aim to enhance mucosal defenses using targeted vaccines, engineered probiotics, barrier-strengthening peptides and immune-modulating nanoparticles. Understanding regional immunity in the gut, lungs, skin and reproductive tract—provides insights into disease-specific interventions. Mucosal immune research is central to developing vaccines for respiratory and gastrointestinal pathogens, treatments for inflammatory bowel diseases and strategies to modulate systemic immunity through localized interventions.