Mucus-producing airway epithelial cells (null)

Goblet cells and other mucus-producing airway epithelial cells are specialized, non-ciliated cells lining the respiratory tract whose chief role is the synthesis and regulated secretion of high molecular weight polymeric mucins—primarily MUC5AC and MUC5B. These mucins polymerize and hydrate to form mucus, which traps pathogens and particulates, maintains epithelial hydration, and is transported out of the lungs via ciliary movement and cough. Goblet cell differentiation and function are regulated by specific transcription factors, notably SPDEF and Foxa3; dysregulation leads to mucus hypersecretion and goblet cell hyperplasia implicated in numerous airway diseases. Club cells, which also produce mucins, can differentiate into goblet cells or ciliated cells. Mucus hypersecretion and altered goblet cell biology are associated with asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, and chronic airway inflammation. Therapies sometimes indirectly target these cells by modulating mucin gene expression, secretion pathways, or mucus characteristics. Direct targeting of these cells is limited by their essential physiologic role in airway protection.

Other names

Mucous cellGoblet cellSecretory airway epithelial cellAirway mucous cellClub cell (produces some mucins in humans)

Reduction/inhibition of mucin gene expression or secretion (by anti-inflammatory drugs, monoclonal antibodies against key cytokines) Promotion of mucus clearance or breakdown (by mucolytics)