Search

Cellular dynamics that influence mucosal healing are not well understood. In this issue of Immunity, Frede, Czarnewski, Monasterio et al. find that B cells accumulate in the colon following intestinal injury. These B cells impair epithelial repair by hindering local stromal-epithelial interactions., Competing Interests: Declaration of interests The authors declare no competing interests., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Humoral immune responses at mucosal surfaces have historically focused on IgA. Growing evidence highlights the complexity of IgA-inducing pathways and the functional impact of IgA on mucosal commensal bacteria. In the gut, IgA contributes to the establishment of a mutualistic host-microbiota relationship that is required to maintain homeostasis and prevent disease. This Review discusses how mucosal IgA responses occur in an increasingly complex humoral defence network that also encompasses IgM, IgG and IgD. Aside from integrating the protective functions of IgA, these hitherto neglected mucosal antibodies may strengthen the communication between mucosal and systemic immune compartments.