What is the primary function of the mucus produced by goblet cells?

What is the primary function of the mucus produced by goblet cells?

• A. Provide structural support
• B. Protect against pathogens
• C. Facilitate gas exchange
• D. Assist in nutrient absorption

Answer: (B)

The primary function of the mucus produced by goblet cells is to protect against pathogens. In the respiratory system, mucus acts as a vital component of the airway epithelium's defense mechanisms. It traps foreign particles, including bacteria, dust, and allergens, preventing them from reaching the delicate tissues of the lungs. This mucosal barrier helps to capture pathogens and facilitate their removal from the airways through ciliary action, which involves tiny hair-like structures that move the mucus upward toward the throat, where it can be swallowed or expelled. Mucus also maintains moisture in the airway, which is essential for optimal respiratory function. By ensuring that the airways are lubricated and moist, mucus can help to optimize the interaction of the air with the epithelial cells and maintain the integrity of the airway linings against environmental insults. The other options, while having their own distinct roles in physiology, do not primarily relate to the function of mucus produced by goblet cells. For example, structural support, gas exchange, and nutrient absorption involve other anatomical structures and physiological processes, such as the extracellular matrix, alveoli, and the gastrointestinal tract, respectively.

The primary function of the mucus produced by goblet cells is to protect against pathogens. In the respiratory system, mucus acts as a vital component of the airway epithelium's defense mechanisms. It traps foreign particles, including bacteria, dust, and allergens, preventing them from reaching the delicate tissues of the lungs. This mucosal barrier helps to capture pathogens and facilitate their removal from the airways through ciliary action, which involves tiny hair-like structures that move the mucus upward toward the throat, where it can be swallowed or expelled.

Mucus also maintains moisture in the airway, which is essential for optimal respiratory function. By ensuring that the airways are lubricated and moist, mucus can help to optimize the interaction of the air with the epithelial cells and maintain the integrity of the airway linings against environmental insults.

The other options, while having their own distinct roles in physiology, do not primarily relate to the function of mucus produced by goblet cells. For example, structural support, gas exchange, and nutrient absorption involve other anatomical structures and physiological processes, such as the extracellular matrix, alveoli, and the gastrointestinal tract, respectively.