The thoracic and peritoneal cavities are lined by serous membranes and are home of the
serosal immune system. This immune system fuses innate and adaptive immunity, to maintain local
homeostasis and repair local tissue damage, and to cooperate closely with the mucosal immune system.
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are found abundantly in the thoracic and peritoneal cavities, and they
are crucial in first defense against pathogenic viruses and bacteria. Nanomaterials (NMs) can enter
the cavities intentionally for medical purposes, or unintentionally following environmental exposure;
subsequent serosal inflammation and cancer (mesothelioma) has gained significant interest. However,
reports on adverse effects of NMon ILCs and other components of the serosal immune systemare scarce
or even lacking. As ILCs are crucial in the first defense against pathogenic viruses and bacteria, it is
possible that serosal exposure to NMmay lead to a reduced resistance against pathogens. Additionally,
affected serosal lymphoid tissues and cells may disturb adipose tissue homeostasis. This review aims to
provide insight into key effects of NMon the serosal immune system.
