Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 3, 2026
09:24
Mucin Agarose Gel Electrophoresis: Western Blotting for High-molecular-weight Glycoproteins
Published on: June 14, 2016
[Mucins in otorhinolaryngology]
1Anatomisches Institut, Christian-Albrechts-Universität, Olshausenstrasse 40, 24098 Kiel. fpaulsen@anat.uni-kiel.de
HNO
|April 27, 2002
Summary
Mucins, key glycoproteins in the upper aerodigestive tract, are increasingly recognized for their role. Further research is needed to classify specific mucins and trefoil factor peptides in otorhinolaryngology.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Glycobiology
- Otorhinolaryngology
Context:
- Mucins are high-polymer glycoproteins integral to the mucous layer of the upper aerodigestive tract epithelia.
- Historically, mucins have received limited attention within the field of otorhinolaryngology.
Purpose:
- To review current knowledge on mucins in the upper aerodigestive tract.
- To identify gaps in understanding regarding mucin classification and distribution.
Summary:
- A MEDLINE search identified 13 distinct mucins (MUC 1-13) classified by the Human Gene Mapping Committee.
- Trefoil factor peptides, small mucin-associated peptides, have also garnered significant research interest.
Impact:
- Highlights the need for classification of mucins in the middle ear, larynx, oropharynx, esophagus, and nasolacrimal ducts.
- Underscores the limited knowledge regarding the distribution of trefoil factor peptides in the upper aerodigestive tract, indicating areas for future research.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Olfaction
The sense of smell is achieved through the activities of the olfactory system. It starts when an airborne odorant enters the nasal cavity and reaches olfactory epithelium (OE). The OE is protected by a thin layer of mucus, which also serves the purpose of dissolving more complex compounds into simpler chemical odorants. The size of the OE and the density of sensory neurons varies among species; in humans, the OE is only about 9-10 cm2.
The olfactory receptors are embedded in the cilia of the...
The olfactory receptors are embedded in the cilia of the...
01:16Drugs Used in Upper Respiratory Disorders: Overview
Upper respiratory tract disorders, including viral infections and allergic rhinitis, cause significant discomfort and disrupt daily life. Managing these conditions involves a variety of drugs, such as antihistamines, intranasal steroids, decongestants, antitussives, expectorants, and mucolytics. Specific examples of drugs in each category are provided.
Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl) block histamines from binding. Histamines are chemicals released during an allergic reaction in the body. As a...
Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl) block histamines from binding. Histamines are chemicals released during an allergic reaction in the body. As a...
01:24Nose and Nasal Cavity
The nose is composed of an observable exterior segment (external nose) and an internal segment within the skull known as the nasal cavity (internal nose). The external nose, visible on the face, consists of a framework of bone and hyaline cartilage enveloped in skin and muscle and lined with a mucous membrane. This structure is supported by the frontal bone, nasal bones, and maxillary bone and is supplemented by a cartilaginous framework comprising the septal nasal cartilage, lateral nasal...
01:25Mucosal Barrier of the Stomach
The gastric glands contain parietal cells that secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl) for digestion. The cells secrete HCl because it is highly corrosive and essential for breaking down food. To achieve this, they secrete hydrogen and chloride ions into the lumen of the gastric glands, which combine to form HCl.
Within parietal cells, carbonic acid is first formed through the reaction of water and carbon dioxide. The dissociation of carbonic acid releases bicarbonate and hydrogen ions. The bicarbonate...
Within parietal cells, carbonic acid is first formed through the reaction of water and carbon dioxide. The dissociation of carbonic acid releases bicarbonate and hydrogen ions. The bicarbonate...
01:29Anatomy of Respiratory System I: Upper Respiratory Tract
The upper respiratory tract plays a vital role in the respiratory system, comprising several structures that facilitate air intake and prepare air for the lungs. It also serves as the first line of defense against pathogens and particles. This tract includes the nose and nasal cavity, the oral cavity, the paranasal sinuses, and the pharynx, each with specific functions and features.
Nose and nasal cavity
The nose and nasal cavity represent the main external openings of the respiratory tract.
Nose and nasal cavity
The nose and nasal cavity represent the main external openings of the respiratory tract.
01:29Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract
The human respiratory tract, comprising the upper and lower segments, serves as a critical interface with the external environment. The upper respiratory tract (URT)—including the nostrils, sinuses, pharynx, and oropharynx—is heavily colonized by microbes, while the lower respiratory tract (LRT), composed of the larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs, was long thought to be sterile. However, recent molecular studies have revealed that the lungs are not devoid of microbes but act more like...