What is the primary function of the 'M cells' located in the epithelium overlying Peyer's patches?
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Correct answer: Sampling of luminal antigens for presentation to underlying immune cells
M (microfold) cells are specialized for transcytosis, transporting antigens from the gut lumen across the epithelial barrier to the underlying lymphoid tissue. This allows the immune system to 'sample' the contents of the gut and initiate appropriate responses.
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