mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue
Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) is a component of the immune system found in mucosal surfaces throughout the body, such as the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, and urogenital tract. It plays a crucial role in protecting these areas from pathogens by producing immune responses and generating antibodies.
MALT includes structures like tonsils, Peyer’s patches in the intestines, and appendix. These tissues contain specialized immune cells that help detect and respond to foreign invaders, ensuring that the body can effectively defend itself against infections while maintaining tolerance to harmless substances.