We generated a comprehensive multi-omic atlas of the human gingiva, showing that the tooth-associated epithelium maintains a unique, pre-inflammatory state even in health. Signals from the epithelium and stroma organize the underlying tissue into distinct immune zones. These zones are established in health and expand to form immature tertiary lymphoid structures during chronic periodontitis.
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This is a summary of: Theofilou, V. I. et al. Distinct spatial organization governs oral mucosal immunity. Nat. Immunol. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41590-025-02398-y (2026).
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Distinct spatial organization governs oral mucosal immunity. Nat Immunol 27, 395–396 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41590-025-02410-5
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41590-025-02410-5
