Abstract

Mucosal surfaces serve as critical barriers that interface with the external environment, protecting organisms from pathogens while maintaining tolerance to commensal microbes and harmless antigens. This complex immunological environment involves a network of cells, soluble factors, and specialized tissues that orchestrate immune responses tailored to the unique challenges posed by mucosal encounters. This review explores the mechanisms underlying mucosal surface immunology, emphasizing cellular interactions, molecular signaling pathways, and the implications for health and disease.