Question

__________ are water-soluble, complex glycoproteins that are secreted by goblet cells.__________ are water-soluble, complex glycoproteins that are secreted by goblet cells.AlbuminKeratinCollagenProteoglycanMucin

Answer 1

Mucins 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:

1. The barrier function: By trapping the unwanted/harmful particles that we inhale and preventing them from entering our system.
2. The protection function: By keeping the hair-like cilia lubricated and moist to remove the harmful particles.
3. 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.