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Structure and function of the cell surface (tethered) mucins.

Christine L Hattrup¹, Sandra J Gendler

¹Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, AR 85259, USA.

Annual Review of Physiology

|September 14, 2007

Summary

Cell surface mucins, like MUC1, MUC4, and MUC16, are vital glycoproteins in the respiratory tract. They protect airway epithelia and regulate cell signaling, playing key roles in lung health and disease.

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Area of Science:

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Cell Biology
Respiratory Medicine

Background:

Cell surface mucins are large transmembrane glycoproteins with critical roles in epithelial protection and cellular regulation.
Their functions in normal and diseased lung physiology are increasingly recognized, despite challenges in studying these large molecules.
This review specifically examines MUC1, MUC4, and MUC16, the most studied mucins in the respiratory tract.

Purpose of the Study:

To provide a focused review on the three best-characterized cell surface mucins in the respiratory tract: MUC1, MUC4, and MUC16.
To synthesize current knowledge on the diverse functions of these mucins in lung physiology and pathology.
To highlight their significance in shielding the airway epithelium and regulating cellular processes.

Main Methods:

Literature review of existing studies on MUC1, MUC4, and MUC16.
Analysis of research focusing on the roles of these mucins in airway epithelium.
Synthesis of data concerning mucin involvement in cellular signaling and transcription in the lung.

Main Results:

MUC1, MUC4, and MUC16 are prominently expressed in the respiratory tract.
These mucins are integral to protecting the airway epithelium from pathogens.
They also play significant roles in modulating cellular signaling and transcriptional regulation within lung tissues.

Conclusions:

Cell surface mucins MUC1, MUC4, and MUC16 are crucial components of lung physiology.
Their multifaceted roles in epithelial defense and cell regulation underscore their importance in respiratory health and disease.
Further research into these large glycoproteins is essential for understanding and potentially treating lung conditions.