Fig. 3.
The interaction between the mesenteric lymphatics and the intestinal flora. Invading intestinal mucosal bacteria interact with various immune cells in mesenteric lymph nodes, such as T cells, B cells, DC cells, macrophages, NK cells, and neutrophils. When bacteria stimulate the mesenteric lymph nodes, more IFN-C is secreted. At the same time, bifidobacteria can lead to decreased IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-12 secretion of DC cells. Also, the presence of microorganisms can activate the CD40 pathway and make CD103+ cells migrate from lamina propria to MLN, playing an important role in immune regulation, hence lymphangiogenesis