The transcytosis of antigens across the gut epithelium by microfold cells (M cells) is
important for the induction of efficient immune responses to some mucosal antigens in
Peyer's patches. Recently, substantial progress has been made in our understanding of the
factors that influence the development and function of M cells. This review highlights these
important advances, with particular emphasis on: the host genes which control the functional
maturation of M cells; how this knowledge has led to the rapid advance in our understanding …