Abstract

The gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) represents a complex and dynamic system crucial for immune surveillance and response within the gastrointestinal tract. Comprising various specialized structures such as Peyer’s patches, mesenteric lymph nodes, and isolated lymphoid follicles, GALT plays a pivotal role in maintaining intestinal homeostasis while orchestrating immune defenses against pathogens and commensal microbes. This review aims to explore the intricate organization, cellular components, and molecular mechanisms that underpin the functions of GALT. Insights into how GALT integrates immune surveillance with tolerance mechanisms are discussed, highlighting recent advances in our understanding of mucosal immunology and its implications for health and disease.