mucosaceller

Mucosaceller (mucosal cells) are the epithelial cells that line the mucous membranes, or mucosa, covering many internal surfaces exposed to the external environment. These include the digestive tract, the respiratory tract, and parts of the urogenital tract, as well as the oral cavity and conjunctiva.

Epithelial compositions vary by site: the mucosa of the stomach and intestines is usually simple or pseudostratified columnar with goblet cells; the esophagus mucosa is stratified squamous; the respiratory mucosa is typically pseudostratified ciliated columnar with goblet cells. Goblet cells synthesize and secrete mucins, forming mucus that lubricates and traps microorganisms. Other specialized mucosal cells include ciliated cells and, in the intestinal mucosa, enteroendocrine and Paneth cells.

Function: Mucous produced by mucosal cells provides lubrication and a physical barrier; ciliary movement helps clear particles in the airways; the mucosa participates in immune defense through the underlying lamina propria containing immune cells.

Structure: Mucosa consists of epithelium, lamina propria, and muscularis mucosae; underlying connective tissue supports vessels and nerves.

Turnover: The mucosal epithelium has a high renewal rate, maintained by stem cells at the base of the glands or crypts, enabling rapid repair after injury.

Clinical relevance: Disruption of mucosal integrity can contribute to infections, ulcers, and inflammatory diseases; mucositis is a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and mucosal inflammation is central to diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and chronic rhinosinusitis.