Gastric mucus

Gastric mucus is a viscous secretion composed primarily of glycoproteins called mucins—mainly derived from mucous neck cells—which forms a thick layer over the gastric epithelium[3][7][8]. Its main functions are protecting the stomach lining from corrosive gastric acid and digestive enzymes by acting as a physical and pH buffer barrier and lubricating the food bolus for effective digestion and transit[1][3][7][8]. The mucus gel traps bicarbonate ions at the epithelial surface, maintaining a neutral microenvironment even as the gastric lumen remains highly acidic[3]. Disruption of the mucus barrier is implicated in peptic ulcers, gastritis, and certain forms of gastric cancer[2][3][6]; enhancement of mucus integrity is a pharmacological goal in gastric protective therapy.

Other names

Gastric mucous layerGastric protective mucusStomach mucusNull for molecular synonyms (no accepted gene/protein aliases)

Enhanced mucus secretion and cytoprotection (misoprostol, sucralfate) Acid inhibition (PPIs reduce the need for extreme mucus protection) Disruption of mucus biosynthesis (NSAIDs block prostaglandin-mediated mucus secretion)