Mucinpathogens

Mucinpathogens are pathogens that interact with mucins, the glycoprotein components of mucus, during infection. Mucins form a viscoelastic barrier on mucosal surfaces such as the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary tracts. Some pathogens exploit this barrier to adhere, invade, or persist, while others alter mucin production or structure to enhance colonization or immune evasion. The diversity of mucin types and glycan patterns across tissues and individuals can influence susceptibility and disease outcomes.

Mechanisms of interaction include adhesion to mucin glycans through bacterial adhesins, lectin-like proteins, or viral surface proteins that recognize sialic acids or other mucin-associated sugars. Pathogens may also secrete mucinases, neuraminidases, glycosidases, and proteases to degrade or remodel mucins, reducing clearance and exposing underlying receptors. Biofilm formation within mucus and modulation of host mucin gene expression or glycosylation can further affect infection dynamics. These interactions can promote persistence in mucus-rich environments and influence inflammatory responses.

Organisms commonly associated with mucin interactions span bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori and Pseudomonas aeruginosa can engage mucins in the gut and airways; viruses such as influenza and norovirus interact with mucin glycans; Candida species can adhere to and metabolize mucins in the mucosal surfaces. The study of mucinpathogens informs understanding of pathogenesis, transmission, and potential therapeutic strategies aimed at disrupting mucin–pathogen interactions or restoring mucus barrier function.

Research directions include developing decoy mucins, mucolytic approaches, and vaccines that target mucin-binding factors to reduce infection risk.