Mucin-7 (MUC7)

Mucin-7 (MUC7) is a small, secreted salivary mucin encoded by the MUC7 gene located on chromosome 4q13.3[2][4]. It is a densely O-glycosylated glycoprotein with a central region of tandem 23-amino-acid repeats that are polymorphic in copy number[1][2][4]. MUC7 is a member of the secretory calcium-binding phosphoprotein (SCPP) family and is predominantly expressed in human saliva[1]. Functionally, MUC7 plays a crucial role in innate oral immunity, binding and clearing bacteria and fungi and protecting epithelial cells by preventing pathogen adhesion[1][3][4]. Its antimicrobial activity is enhanced by coordination with metal ions such as zinc, and the protein contains domains responsible for both fungicidal and bactericidal functions[1][3]. MUC7 helps with mastication, speech, and swallowing by lubricating the oral cavity[2][4]. Some genetic variants of MUC7 are associated with increased susceptibility to asthma, but there are no known drugs that directly target MUC7, and it is not considered a classic therapeutic target or receptor[1][2][3][4].

Other names

MG2mucin 7, secretedmucin MG2salivary mucin-7Apo-MG2mucin 7, salivarymucin-7FLJ27047