Mucin Disulfide Bonds

Disulfide bonds are covalent linkages formed between cysteine residues within and between mucin monomers. These bonds are crucial for the oligomerization of mucins into large polymeric networks, which are essential for forming the viscoelastic mucus gel in airway secretions. The formation and reduction of these bonds regulate mucus expansion, viscosity, and overall barrier function in the respiratory tract. Targeting these bonds is a therapeutic strategy for modulating mucus properties in airway diseases.

Other names

Mucin Cross-linkingDisulfide Bridges in MucinsCysteine Bonds in Airway Mucus

Reduction of disulfide bonds, leading to decreased mucus viscosity.