<u>Mucins</u> are water-soluble, complex glycoproteins that are secreted by goblet cells.
Explanation:
Goblet cells, named after their goblet-like shape, are usually found in the epithelium of respiratory and intestinal tracts in the body. Their main function is to produce mucus (primarily made up of mucins), a slippery combination of proteins, water and sugars, that serves three main functions:
The barrier function: By trapping the unwanted/harmful particles that we inhale and preventing them from entering our system.
The protection function: By keeping the hair-like cilia lubricated and moist to remove the harmful particles.
The defence function: Mucus is made up of certain enzymes, antibodies and proteins that act as a defence mechanism for the body.
A unique property of mucins is their capability to form gels - sticky and viscous substances that work both as lubricants as well as defensive chemical barriers in the body.
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