Tuft cells are a morphologically distinct subpopulation of epithelial cells widely distributed in various organs, including the gastrointestinal tract. They are characterized by their apical protrusions. Although tuft cells constitute only a small fraction of epithelial cells, their broad distribution and unique morphological features have attracted increasing research interest in recent years. This narrative review comprehensively summarized the discovery history, morphology, tissue distribution, biomarkers, biological functions of tuft cells as well as their roles in gastrointestinal diseases. Specific biomarkers, receptors and effector molecules of tuft cells have been continuously identified, and their biological functions in chemore-ception, immune modulation, neural regulation and epithelial regeneration have been gradually elucidated. Tuft cells participate in the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal diseases such as gastrointestinal infections, inflammatory bowel disease, gastrointestinal tumors and epithelial injury repair. Numerous questions regarding tuft cells remain to be elucidated. Further comprehensive and in-depth investigations are anticipated to yield novel perspectives and facilitate targeted clinical interventions based on tuft cells.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Dong et al. (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: