Mucin glycoproteins (airway)

Mucin glycoproteins are large, heavily O-glycosylated proteins secreted primarily by goblet cells and submucosal gland cells in the airway epithelium. The most clinically important airway mucins are MUC5AC and MUC5B, which polymerize to form a gel-like mucus layer atop the respiratory epithelium. This mucus protects against inhaled pathogens, particles, and environmental insults while ensuring airway hydration and supporting mucociliary transport. Mucin synthesis and secretion are tightly regulated and are dramatically upregulated in response to airway inflammation, infection, and irritants. Dysregulation of mucin production or mucus clearance contributes to disease pathogenesis in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, and other respiratory conditions. Therapeutic interventions target mucin gene expression, secretion, or the physical properties of mucus to restore airway homeostasis or improve symptoms.

Other names

airway mucinsairway gel-forming mucinsMUC5ACMUC5Brespiratory tract mucins

Mucolytics: disrupt mucin polymer and reduce viscosity Anti-inflammatories: suppress mucin gene expression Hydrators: draw water into mucus to aid clearance