Question
Question: What is the function of mucus? A. It carries hormones. B. It signals phagocytes. C. It traps ...
What is the function of mucus?
A. It carries hormones.
B. It signals phagocytes.
C. It traps pathogens.
D. It causes disease
Solution
Mucus is a slick aqueous secretion produced by mucous membranes and covering them. It is usually produced by cells in mucous glands, but it can also come from mixed glands that contain both serous and mucous cells.
Complete answer:
Mucus protects epithelial cells in respiratory, digestive, and urogenital system linings, as well as structures in the visual and auditory systems, from pathogenic fungi, bacteria, and viruses. The gastrointestinal tract produces the majority of the mucus in the body.
External mucus is produced by amphibians, fish, hagfish, snails, slugs, and other invertebrates as a defense against pathogens and to aid in movement. It is also produced by fish to line their gills. Plants and microorganisms both produce mucilage, which is similar to glucosinolate.
Mucus is used as a lubricant in the human digestive system for materials that must pass through membranes, such as food passing down the esophagus. In the gastrointestinal tract, mucus is extremely important. It forms an important layer in the colon and small intestine that aids in the reduction of intestinal inflammation by reducing bacterial interaction with intestinal epithelial cells.
So, the mucus carries hormones.
Hence, the answer is option A: It carries hormones.
Note:
Increased mucus production in the upper respiratory tract is a sign of a variety of illnesses, including the common cold and influenza. Nasal mucus can be blown out of the nose or removed with nasal irrigation. Excess nasal mucus caused by vascular engorgement associated with vasodilation and increased capillary permeability caused by histamines, such as that caused by a cold or allergies, can be treated.