Question

What are mucus-secreting cells?

Answer 1

The mucus is a viscous fluid mainly composed of the highly glycosylated proteins that are known as the mucins. The mucins are suspended in the solution of the electrolytes. The mucus is slippery and stringy fluid in nature.

Complete answer: The mucus is secreted by the mucus-secreting cells of the stomach. The cells of the lamina propria of the mucosa layer of the stomach have goblet cells. These goblet cells form and secrete the mucous. Goblet cells are simple epithelial cells that are columnar and goblet-shaped. They are unicellular cells. The goblet cells have merocrine secretions normally but under stress, it can convert to apocrine as well. Mucus protects the lining of the stomach from the harmful hydrochloric acid. This is because the hydrochloric acid can damage the walls of the stomach. The mucus prevents the wall of the stomach from damage. It also traps harmful pathogens and bacteria. It also prevents the wall from drying by maintaining the moisture content. The mucus also acts as a lubricant in the digestive tract that helps the food to pass down the oesophagus.

Note: The mucous is also secreted by various linings in the body. The respiratory lining also has the lining of the mucous. It is present in the intestinal lining of the gastrointestinal tract. The mucous protects all these surfaces from drying up. In the respiratory tract, it prevents dust and other pathogens from entering the body. It also warms and provides moisture to the dry air.