Defective Epithelial Barriers Linked to Two Billion Chronic Diseases
Published:12 May2021 Source:University of Zurich
Epithelial cells form the covering of most internal and external surfaces of the human body. This protective layer acts as a defense against invaders -- including bacteria, viruses, environmental toxins, pollutants and allergens.
If the skin and mucosal barriers are damaged or leaky, foreign agents such as bacteria can enter into the tissue and cause local, often chronic inflammation. This has both direct and indirect consequences.