Abstract
Membranous epithelial (M) cells are specialized epithelial cells overlying the subepithelial lymphoid follicles in the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. Antigens, including some viruses and bacteria, penetrate the mucosal barrier via the M cell, which endocytoses and transports antigens and microorganisms into the Peyer's patch or bronchial-associated lymphoid tissue. Here antigens may initiate an immune response and/or disseminate and induce disease. This review discusses the structure and function of the M cell, its role in macromolecular uptake, and its interaction with the immune system.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
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Review
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Antibody Formation
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Biological Transport
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Epithelial Cells*
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Epithelium / metabolism
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Epithelium / ultrastructure
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Gastric Mucosa / cytology
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Gastric Mucosa / immunology
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Gastric Mucosa / metabolism
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Humans
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Intestinal Mucosa / cytology
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Intestinal Mucosa / immunology
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Intestinal Mucosa / metabolism
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Intestinal Mucosa / ultrastructure
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Lymphoid Tissue / cytology*
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Lymphoid Tissue / immunology
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Lymphoid Tissue / metabolism
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Mucous Membrane / immunology*
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Mucous Membrane / metabolism
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Peyer's Patches / immunology
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Peyer's Patches / metabolism
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Respiratory System / cytology
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Respiratory System / immunology
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Respiratory System / metabolism