Mucus

For other uses, see Mucus (disambiguation).

Mucus (/ˈmjuːkəs/, MEW-kəs) is a slippery fluid produced by, and covering, mucous membranes. Mucus forms a protective barrier between epithelial cells on the internal and external surfaces of the body and the outside environment. Mucus is found in the linings of the respiratory, digestive, and urogenital systems, and in the eyes and ears. Mucus helps to trap, destroy, or remove harmful particles, fungi, bacteria and viruses.

Mucus is typically produced from cells found in mucous glands, and may also originate from mixed glands which contain both serous and mucous cells. It is a viscous colloid containing inorganic salts, antimicrobial enzymes (such as lysozymes), immunoglobulins (especially IgA), and glycoproteins such as lactoferrin and mucins, which are produced by goblet cells in the mucous membranes and submucosal glands. Most of the mucus in the body is produced in the gastrointestinal tract.

Amphibians, fish, snails, slugs, and some other invertebrates also produce external mucus from their epidermis as protection against pathogens, to help in movement, and to line fish gills. Plants produce a similar substance called mucilage that is also produced by some microorganisms.

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