M cells actively transport luminal antigens across the intestinal epithelium to the underlying lymphoid follicles, where they initiate immune responses. This process is crucial for the induction of specific mucosal immune responses, including the production of IgA antibodies, which are essential for neutralizing pathogens in the gut. The molecular machinery of M-cell differentiation and function has been extensively studied, revealing the role of transcription factors like Spi-B and Sox8 in their maturation.