Respiratory tract mucous membrane

The respiratory tract mucous membrane is a protective lining covering the internal surfaces of the airways (nasal cavity, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs). It consists of epithelial cells (mainly ciliated pseudostratified columnar epithelium), goblet cells, and underlying connective tissue. Its functions include trapping and expelling inhaled pathogens and particles, preventing dehydration of underlying tissues, producing mucus, and contributing to local and systemic immune defense. Specialized glandular cells in the submucosal glands secrete mucus and defensive proteins; the membrane is a critical component for maintaining respiratory health, mediating interactions with symbiotic microflora, and supporting mucosal immunity. Dysfunction or disease affecting this membrane underlies several respiratory disorders including infection, asthma, COPD, and cystic fibrosis. The membrane itself is not a therapeutic molecular target; rather, drugs may target constituent cells, immune elements, or secreted components.

Other names

Respiratory mucosaairway mucosarespiratory epithelium (in practice these may refer to overlapping but not identical tissues)