Intraepithelial lymphocyte

Intraepithelial lymphocyte (IEL) are a type of lymphocyte, a white blood cell, that is present in the epithelium, the outer layer of cells in the body. They play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the epithelial barrier and in providing the first line of defense against pathogens.

Function

IELs are primarily involved in the maintenance of epithelial integrity. They are also involved in the immune response to pathogens. They can recognize and respond to a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. They can also recognize and eliminate malignant cells.

Types

There are two main types of IELs:

• T cells: These are the most common type of IELs. They can be further divided into two types: CD8+ T cells and CD4+ T cells. CD8+ T cells are involved in the direct killing of infected cells, while CD4+ T cells are involved in the regulation of the immune response.

• B cells: These are less common than T cells, but they also play a crucial role in the immune response. They produce antibodies that can neutralize pathogens.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the number or function of IELs can lead to various diseases. For example, an increase in the number of IELs is seen in celiac disease, a condition characterized by an immune response to gluten. On the other hand, a decrease in the number of IELs can lead to an increased susceptibility to infections.

See also

• Lymphocyte
• Epithelium
• Immune system
• Celiac disease

References

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