Neuro-immune regulation of mucosal physiology

Mucosal Immunol. 2019 Jan;12(1):10-20. doi: 10.1038/s41385-018-0063-y. Epub 2018 Aug 8.

Abstract

Mucosal barriers constitute major body surfaces that are in constant contact with the external environment. Mucosal sites are densely populated by a myriad of distinct neurons and immune cell types that sense, integrate and respond to multiple environmental cues. In the recent past, neuro-immune interactions have been reported to play central roles in mucosal health and disease, including chronic inflammatory conditions, allergy and infectious diseases. Discrete neuro-immune cell units act as building blocks of this bidirectional multi-tissue cross-talk, ensuring mucosal tissue health and integrity. Herein, we will focus on reciprocal neuro-immune interactions in the airways and intestine. Such neuro-immune cross-talk maximizes sensing and integration of environmental aggressions, which can be considered an important paradigm shift in our current views of mucosal physiology and immune regulation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Communication
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / immunology*
  • Inflammation / immunology*
  • Mucous Membrane / physiology*
  • Neuroimmunomodulation*
  • Neurons / physiology*
  • Receptor Cross-Talk