The gastrointestinal tract comprises the largest surface area of the human body. This area is
constantly exposed to myriad antigens as well as the large number of bacteria that coexist in
the intestinal lumen. To protect against this exposure and help distinguish “self” from
“foreign,” the intestinal tract has evolved a sophisticated barrier defense system that includes
both innate and adaptive immune systems. However, infants who are born preterm do not
have the benefit of an adequate immune response and, therefore, are more susceptible to …