About SMI
The Society for Mucosal Immunology (SMI) was formed in 1987 to advance research and education related to the field of mucosal immunology. Today the society represents a diverse group of more than 900 scientists and clinicians from all over the world.
Since 1990 mucosal immunology has expanded from what many considered a niche discipline to one of the hottest areas in immunobiology today.
Mucosal immunologists focus on the sites at which most antigens enter—the mucosal surfaces of the gastrointestinal, respiratory and urogenital tracts, which are the body’s first line of defense against an array of pathogenic microbes. They study of the disease states that result when the mucosal immune system’s ability to distinguish pathogens from innocuous antigens fails (i.e. inflammatory bowel diseases, food allergies, gluten intolerance).
Harnessing the mucosal immune system’s unique features to prevent or treat disease is another rapidly growing area of interest that includes the development and refinement of orally and nasally administered vaccines, adjuvants and immunotherapeutics.
SMI and its members have been responsible for the organization of 18 international congresses in the United States, Europe, Asia and Australia. To help achieve its mission, SMI has developed and maintained collaborative partnerships with other important immunological organizations, including the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA), American Association of Immunologists (AAI), the Federation of Clinical Immunology Societies (FOCIS), the European Mucosal Immunology Group (EMIG), the Japanese Society for Mucosal Immunology (JSMI) and the Australian Society for Immunology (ASI).
SMI provides forums for the exchange of research, policy formulation relevant to the profession and research work environments, and learning opportunities for professionals in one of the most prominent and emerging scientific disciplines.
Mission
SMI supports research and education and fosters communication and collaboration in the field of mucosal immunology.
Vision
SMI is the preeminent international community of researchers working together to advance the field of mucosal immunology and improve health worldwide.
Adopted at the Strategic Planning Session held at the 11th International Congress of Mucosal Immunology, Orlando, Florida, USA, June 2002.
