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Intestinal Barrier Function

Meaning

Intestinal barrier function refers to the critical physiological role of the gastrointestinal lining in selectively permitting the absorption of essential nutrients and water while simultaneously preventing the translocation of harmful bacteria, toxins, and undigested food particles into the systemic circulation. This barrier is maintained by a single layer of epithelial cells sealed by complex tight junction proteins. Compromise of this function, often termed “leaky gut,” is implicated in systemic inflammation and autoimmune and metabolic disorders.