Mucous Membrane of the Respiratory Tract

The mucous membrane of the respiratory tract is a specialized tissue lining that covers the airways from the nasal cavity through to the lungs. It serves as a critical barrier and interface between inhaled external substances and internal body tissues, playing essential roles in protection, immune defense, and maintaining airway function. It's composed of epithelial cells (often pseudostratified ciliated columnar), goblet cells secreting mucus, and an underlying lamina propria containing blood vessels, nerves, and immune cells. This membrane traps particulate matter and pathogens, moving them out via the mucociliary escalator. It also provides active immunological surveillance and humidifies incoming air.

Other names

Respiratory MucosaAirway Mucosa