Mucosal barriers are essential for protecting the organism from environmental antigens. However, when the immune response at these sites is dysregulated, it can lead to the development of allergic diseases. The ocular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary tracts are particularly susceptible due to their constant exposure to immunogens, pathogens, and toxins. To develop new diagnostic tools and therapies, it is crucial to understand the complex interactions between environmental factors, the mucosal barrier, and the immune system, including the critical role of the mucosal microbiome in the development and maintenance of immune function.

Recent advances in mucosal immunology have revealed new immune cells and cytokines involved in allergy development, as well as the crucial role of the epithelial barrier in regulating immune responses at mucosal sites. As a result, novel therapies targeting specific immune pathways, such as biologics and small molecule drugs have been discovered by dissecting the mucosal mechanisms of allergy pathogenesis. The aim of this Research Topic is to present works that will contribute to the understanding of mucosal immune dysregulation as it holds the potential to enhance the quality of life for individuals affected by allergic diseases.

Suitable themes for manuscripts include, but are not limited to:

• Mechanisms of mucosal immune dysregulation: Investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms that lead to dysregulated immune responses at mucosal sites and the role of the mucosal microbiome in regulating immune function.

• Environmental factors and mucosal immune dysregulation: Understanding how environmental factors such as pollution, diet, and exposure to allergens can disrupt mucosal immune function and contribute to allergic diseases.

• Epithelial barrier function and immune regulation: Examining the critical role of the epithelial barrier in maintaining immune homeostasis at mucosal sites and how barrier dysfunction can lead to and/or worsen allergic diseases.

• Novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for allergic diseases and mucosal immunology: Developing new tools for diagnosing and monitoring allergic diseases, including biomarkers, imaging techniques, and advanced immunological assays that can identify specific immune responses in the mucosa. Additionally, proposing novel therapies that target specific immune pathways in the mucosal immune system to restore immune homeostasis and prevent allergic reactions.

• Translational research in allergic diseases and mucosal immunology: Translating basic research findings on mucosal immunology into clinical practice to improve the diagnosis and treatment of allergic diseases. This involves the evaluation of drugs that can modulate mucosal immune responses and prevent allergic reactions, as well as the identification of new molecular targets that can be used to diagnose and monitor allergic diseases.

• Public health implications of allergic diseases and mucosal immunology: Investigating the impact of allergic diseases on public health, including the economic burden and the need for improved access to healthcare for affected individuals, with the aim of improving the quality of life for affected individuals and reducing the burden on healthcare systems.

All article types accepted by Frontiers are welcome.

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Frontiers in Allergy

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