Mucins: a biologically relevant glycan barrier in mucosal protection

Background: The mucins found as components of mucus gel layers at mucosal surfaces throughout the body play roles in protection as part of the defensive barrier on an organ and tissue specific basis.

Scope of the review: The human MUC gene family codes up to 20 known proteins, which can be divided into secreted and membrane-associated forms each with a typical protein domain structure. The secreted mucins are adapted to cross link in order to allow formation of the extended mucin networks found in the secreted mucus gels. The membrane-associated mucins possess membrane specific domains which enable their various biological functions as part of the glycocalyx. All mucins are highly O-glycosylated and this is tissue specific and linked with specific biological functions at these locations. Mucin biology is dynamic and the processes of degradation and turnover are well integrated with biosynthesis to maintain a continuous mucosal protection against all external aggressive forces. Interaction of mucins with microflora plays an important role in normal function. Mucins are modified in a variety of diseases and this may be due to abberant mucin peptide or glycosylation.

Major conclusions: Mucins represent a family of glycoprotein having fundamental roles in mucosal protection and communication with external environment.

General significance: The review emphasises the nature of mucins as glycoproteins and their role in presenting an array of glycan structures at the mucosal cell surface.