Intestinal Antibodies

Abstract

The mucosal surface of the gastrointestinal tract represents an extensive area that must be protected from penetration by pathologic organisms and toxic agents in the environment. An important, if not the most important, component of host defense at the epithelial surface is the presence of intestinal antibodies. These antibodies control bacterial proliferation, neutralize viruses and prevent penetration of enterotoxins and intestinal antigens. A deficiency in local intestinal antibodies can severely impair mucosalbarrier function, resulting in uptake of noxious substances that could contribute to the pathogenesis of intestinal or systemic disease.During the last decade, several important observations have contributed to . . .