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Intestinal Barrier in Human Health and Disease

Author

Listed:
  • Natalia Di Tommaso

    (Division of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology—Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy)

  • Antonio Gasbarrini

    (Division of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology—Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
    Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy)

  • Francesca Romana Ponziani

    (Division of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology—Hepatology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
    Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy)

Abstract

The intestinal mucosa provides a selective permeable barrier for nutrient absorption and protection from external factors. It consists of epithelial cells, immune cells and their secretions. The gut microbiota participates in regulating the integrity and function of the intestinal barrier in a homeostatic balance. Pathogens, xenobiotics and food can disrupt the intestinal barrier, promoting systemic inflammation and tissue damage. Genetic and immune factors predispose individuals to gut barrier dysfunction, and changes in the composition and function of the gut microbiota are central to this process. The progressive identification of these changes has led to the development of the concept of ‘leaky gut syndrome’ and ‘gut dysbiosis’, which underlie the relationship between intestinal barrier impairment, metabolic diseases and autoimmunity. Understanding the mechanisms underlying this process is an intriguing subject of research for the diagnosis and treatment of various intestinal and extraintestinal diseases.

Suggested Citation

  • Natalia Di Tommaso & Antonio Gasbarrini & Francesca Romana Ponziani, 2021. "Intestinal Barrier in Human Health and Disease," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(23), pages 1-23, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:23:p:12836-:d:695765
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    References listed on IDEAS

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