Gut-Epithelial Barrier represents the physical and functional interface formed by the intestinal epithelial cells, which regulates the passage of nutrients into the body while preventing the entry of harmful substances, pathogens, and antigens from the gut lumen.
Context
This barrier is a critical component of the gastrointestinal system and the immune system, comprising a single layer of cells connected by tight junctions, goblet cells producing mucus, and underlying immune cells.
Significance
A healthy gut-epithelial barrier is essential for nutrient absorption, preventing inflammation, and maintaining immune homeostasis; its compromise, known as increased intestinal permeability or “leaky gut,” is linked to numerous systemic diseases.
Mechanism
The barrier functions through selective transport of nutrients and water, maintenance of tight junctions between cells, production of antimicrobial peptides, and interaction with the gut immune system to tolerate commensal bacteria while responding to pathogens.
Application
Clinical focus includes strategies to maintain or restore barrier integrity through diet, probiotics, prebiotics, and treatments for inflammatory bowel diseases or other conditions associated with barrier dysfunction.
Metric
Assessed through functional tests such as measuring serum levels of specific biomarkers like zonulin or lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), or through in vitro assays examining transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) in cell models.
Risk
A compromised gut-epithelial barrier can lead to systemic inflammation, autoimmune responses, metabolic disturbances, and increased susceptibility to infections, underscoring its vital role in maintaining overall health.
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