IEL–IEC circuit in controlling intestinal barrier immunity
The intraepithelial lymphocyte (IEL)– intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) circuit orchestrates immune surveillance, metabolic regulation, and epithelial regeneration at the gut barrier through tightly coordinated bidirectional communication.
The fate and function of IECs and IELs are reciprocally regulated through direct contact and microenvironmental cues.
Disruption of the IEL–IEC unit contributes to intestinal and systemic diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease (CeD), colorectal cancer (CRC), and metabolic syndrome.
Microbiota-derived metabolites and dietary components modulate IEL–IEC crosstalk, providing therapeutic avenues for intervention.
https://www.cell.com/trends/immunology/fulltext/S1471-4906(25)00300-X
