Abstract

The respiratory system, a gateway vulnerable to a myriad of airborne threats, relies on the intricate web of mucosal immunity to maintain its integrity and functionality. This abstract explores the specialized strategies employed by mucosal immunity in the airways, unraveling the dynamic defense mechanisms that protect against respiratory infections and environmental challenges. The airways, from the nasal passages to the bronchioles, are lined with a sophisticated mucosal layer equipped with mucus-producing and ciliated cells. This physical barrier forms the initial defense, trapping and expelling inhaled particles. At the heart of this defense lies the mucosal-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT), strategically positioned to detect and respond to pathogens, orchestrating immune responses in the respiratory mucosa. Within this mucosal realm, dynamic cellular players, including macrophages and dendritic cells, act as vigilant sentinels, detecting and neutralizing invading microorganisms.