The Gastrointestinal System: Anatomy and Sources of Oxidative Stress

This chapter reviews the basic anatomy and histology of the gastrointestinal (GI) system as well as the main sources of oxidative stress. The GI tract, represents a major interface between the human body and its environment, harbors a large microbial community, and represents the first line of defense against potentially harmful effects of ingested materials. Although it is recognized as a major source of oxidative stress in the human body, the GI tract, and particularly its mucosa is endorsed with effective antioxidant defense systems that prevent injury. Excessive generation of oxidative stress, decrease of antioxidant defense systems, and microbiota dysregulation, however, may play a major role in various GI diseases.