Exploring Mucus: The Remarkable Science Behind This Body Substance
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Understanding Mucus and Its Function
Mucus is produced by mucous membranes and constitutes a key element in various bodily substances, such as phlegm, saliva, and nasal mucus. For those interested in delving deeper into the peculiarities of our bodies, I have launched the Gross Human Body newsletter, which provides insights every two weeks. In this article, I will focus on the essential characteristics of mucus.
The primary component of mucus is water, accounting for up to 90% of its makeup. The rest primarily consists of glycoproteins known as mucins, which typically constitute half or even less of the total composition.
Mucin Genes and Their Role
The human genome contains 21 identified mucin genes located on various chromosomes, including MUC1 through MUC22, as well as OVGP1 and EMCN. These genes encode for specific mucin proteins, which are crucial for the process of glycosylation. Once the protein base is synthesized, sugars are incorporated to form the final structure. Certain mucins are released to function outside of cells in tissue fluid, while others attach to cell membranes.
Research teams are actively investigating these proteins, contributing significantly to our understanding of their functions.
MUCIN BIOLOGY GROUPS
The MUCIN BIOLOGY GROUPS are spearheaded by notable researchers including Gunnar C. Hansson, Malin E.V. Johansson, Thaher Pelaseyed, and George Birchenough.
The Importance of Mucins
The properties of mucus, such as its sliminess or viscoelasticity, are influenced by its glycoprotein content. Mucins bond together in water, creating a gel-like consistency. The greater the number of mucin molecules, the thicker the mucus becomes. Other components, like white blood cells or debris, can affect the mucus's color and function.
In essence, different parts of the body produce mucus with varying mucin concentrations, which results in diverse mucus consistencies.
The Journey of Mucus
Much of the mucus generated in the respiratory system eventually finds its way into the digestive tract. When mucus originates from the nasosinus cavity, it is referred to as postnasal drip. Within the stomach, trapped pathogens and foreign particles are neutralized by the acidic environment and subsequently broken down for recycling or disposal, much like any ingested material.
The gut itself is lined with two mucus layers: the outer layer, which houses bacteria essential for digestion, and the inner layer, which protects the gut wall from harmful bacteria and the stomach's acidity. Any dysfunction in these mucus layers could potentially contribute to obesity and various diseases. Moreover, issues with mucin have been linked to inflammatory conditions, cancer, and neurological disorders, highlighting the significance of these glycoproteins in human health.
Exploring the Disgusting Yet Fascinating Aspects of Mucus
This video, "5 Gross Things Inside Your Body Right Now! | What the Stuff?!", takes a closer look at the bizarre elements within our bodies, including mucus.
Daily Disgusts: Understanding Our Body's Processes
In the video "9 Disgusting Things Your Body Does Every Day," we explore the strange yet normal bodily functions that often go unnoticed, including the production and role of mucus.