 The gut is essential for maintaining good health in animals, including poultry. It is the first line of defense against foreign substances such as bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. The gut's epithelial barrier is composed of tight junctions, which are responsible for keeping these substances out of the bloodstream. When this barrier becomes compromised, it can lead to a variety of diseases and conditions, including leaky gut syndrome. Enteric pathogens can exploit this weakened barrier by using various methods to damage the tight junctions, leading to further complications. Understanding how these pathogens interact with the tight junctions is critical for developing effective treatments and preventative measures. This article was authored by Wajah A. Awad, Claudia Hess, and Michael Hess.