Abstract

Mucosal surfaces, such as the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary tracts, serve as critical entry points for a wide range of pathogens, allergens, and environmental factors. The immune system deployed at these sites is uniquely designed to maintain a delicate balance between providing protection against invading pathogens while tolerating harmless antigens, including commensal microorganisms. Mucosal immunopathology encompasses the study of dysregulated immune responses and their associated tissue damage and dysfunction at these mucosal surfaces. This abstract provides a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of mucosal immunopathology, highlighting the intricate interplay between the immune system and various mucosal barriers. It explores the complex mechanisms by which mucosal immunity modulates both innate and adaptive immune responses to maintain homeostasis, regulate inflammation, and protect against infections. Furthermore, this abstract delves into the dysregulated immune responses observed in various mucosal immunopathologies, including inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis, and sexually transmitted infections. It examines the contribution of genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, dysbiosis, and impaired mucosal barrier function in initiating and perpetuating mucosal inflammation and tissue damage. The abstract also sheds light on emerging research strategies aimed at understanding the underlying mechanisms of mucosal immunopathology, including the role of epithelial cells, mucin production, immune cell subsets, and the intricate interplay of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators. Additionally, it highlights the potential therapeutic interventions targeting mucosal immunopathology, such as immune-modulating drugs, targeted biologics, and microbiota-based therapies.