Tuft cells are a type of chemosensory cell found in the epithelial lining of the intestines. They also exist in the respiratory epithelium, where they are known as brush cells. The name "tuft" refers to the brush-like microvilli that project from the cells.
These cells play a crucial role in the immune system, acting as sentinels that monitor the intestinal content. They detect various stimuli, including sweet, bitter, and succinate, and trigger a response to protect the gut from parasites and other harmful substances.
Tuft cells are also involved in tissue regeneration, with recent studies showing that they can differentiate into other intestinal epithelial cell types. This suggests they may have a role in maintaining the gut's healthy state.
Key characteristics of tuft cells:
- Chemosensory: They detect chemical signals in the intestinal lumen.
- Secretive: They release signaling molecules that initiate immune responses.
- Regenerative: They can differentiate into other intestinal epithelial cells.
- Rare: They make up a small percentage of intestinal epithelial cells.
Recent research highlights the importance of tuft cells in various aspects of gut health:
- Type 2 immunity: They promote type 2 immune responses to fight parasites.
- Tissue repair: They contribute to the regeneration of intestinal epithelium.
- Gastrointestinal diseases: Their dysfunction has been linked to certain diseases like inflammatory bowel disease.
Tuft cells are a fascinating example of how the body uses specialized cells to monitor and maintain its internal environment.
