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The homing of immune cells into the intestinal mucosa, the gut-associated lymphoid tissue or the mesenteric lymph nodes involves a complex process of molecular events that is dependent on cell type and cell maturation. Key factors that collectively determine the homing of leukocytes and their interaction with resident endothelial, epithelial, stromal and immune cells are interactions between integrins or selectins with their tissue adhesion molecules as well as chemokine receptors and their ligands. The organization of the small and large intestinal tissue and the mucosa associated lymphoid tissue as well as the presence or absence of inflammatory stimuli influence the homing of intestinal immune cells. The homing pattern of intestinal dendritic cells and CD4+ T cells and its role for the pathogenesis and regulation of inflammatory bowel disease are discussed.

Type

Journal article

Journal

Novartis Found Symp

Publication Date

2004

Volume

263

Pages

179 - 188

Keywords

CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes, Humans, Immune System, Inflammation, Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, Integrins, Intestinal Mucosa, Intestines, Models, Biological, Peyer's Patches, Selectins