mucins

mucins are high-molecular-weight glycoproteins that are the main components of mucus, a protective secretion found on the surfaces of the respiratory, gastrointestinal, urogenital, and ocular systems. mucins are produced by epithelial cells and function to trap pathogens, lubricate tissues, and create a physical barrier that protects against chemical, mechanical, and microbial damage.

molecular weight: typically >200 kDa, some exceeding several MDa
structure: heavily glycosylated proteins with tandem repeat domains rich in serine, threonine, and proline
types: secreted (e.g. MUC2, MUC5AC) and membrane-bound (e.g. MUC1, MUC4)
solubility: hydrophilic; forms viscous gels in aqueous environments

mucins protect epithelial surfaces by trapping dust, bacteria, and viruses in mucus layers.
they facilitate smooth passage of materials (e.g., food, waste) through mucosal linings.
altered mucin expression is associated with diseases like cystic fibrosis, chronic bronchitis, ulcerative colitis, and cancer.
mucins serve as biomarkers in oncology; for example, overexpression of MUC1 is linked to breast and pancreatic cancer.
synthetic mucin-like materials are being explored in drug delivery and tissue engineering.

mucins trap and aggregate pathogens, preventing their attachment to epithelial cells.
their glycan structures can bind to microbial surface proteins, neutralizing them or directing them for clearance.
they support the activity of antimicrobial peptides and maintain microbiome balance.
research highlights:
bacteria:
- pseudomonas aeruginosa research link
- helicobacter pylori research link
viruses:
- norovirus research link
- influenza virus research link

Cyber