Paneth cells: Their role in innate immunity and inflammatory disease

Abstract

A variety of mechanism are needed to mediate host protection against micro-organisms in the intestine prior to induction of highly specific adaptive immune responses. Recent studies suggest that Paneth cells play an important role in innate host defense via their ability to secreteantimicrobial peptides and proteins. There is considerable current interest in host and microbial factors that may regulate Paneth cell function. As they are able to respond to components of the commensal microbial flora, there is also significant current interest in the contribution of these cells to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease.