Age-associated changes of the intestinal epithelial barrier: local and systemic implications.

In the past few years, increasing evidence has suggested that alterations of the epithelial barrier of the GI tract are linked to both local and systemic disorders of various natures. However, in spite of the numerous debilitating health problems that might stem from it, very little attention has been given to how ageing affects this critical structure. Here, the most recent data on the age-associated modifications of some of the physical and immunological features of intestinal epithelial barrier are discussed along with potential strategies to restore its function and improve the quality of life of the elderly, an ever increasing demographic segment of our society.