Mucins: Structural diversity, biosynthesis, its role in pathogenesis and as possible therapeutic targets

Mucins are the main structural components of mucus that create a selective protective barrier for epithelial surface and also execute wide range of other physiological functions. Mucins can be classified into two types, namely secreted mucins and membrane bounded mucins. Alterations in mucin expression or glycosylation and mislocalization has been seen in various types of pathological conditions such as cancers, inflammatory bowel disease and ocular disease, which highlight the importance of mucin in maintaining homeostasis.
Source: Critical Reviews in Oncology Hematology - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Source Type: research