Role of MFG-E8 in protection of intestinal epithelial barrier function and attenuation of intestinal inflammation

The intestinal epithelium is a continuous single layer of cells that lines the intestinal tract. It provides a physical barrier that separates internal body compartments and the harmful environment of the gut lumen. Defects in epithelial barrier and immune functions can lead to infections with opportunistic and pathogenic microbes and contribute to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Recent studies have shown that macrophages in the underlying intestinal tissue produce milk fat globule-EGF factor 8 (MFG-E8) which directly targets intestinal epithelial cells and regulates the integrity of intestinal epithelial barrier function. This chapter outlines our current knowledge about the role of MFG-E8 in maintaining the homeostasis of intestinal epithelial cell lining and highlights potentials for applications of MFG-E8 in gastroenterological diseases.