Immunomodulatory properties of transmembrane mucins: from chronic diseases to cancer

Abstract

Mucins are large glycoproteins that form the primary structural component of mucus and can be classified intosecreted and transmembrane types. Of the 22 identified mucin genes, 12 encode transmembrane mucins, whichplay crucial roles in maintaining epithelial barrier integrity, modulating cell signaling, and innate immuneresponses to pathogens. Transmembrane mucins are expressed in epithelial cells, inflammatory cells, endothe-lial cells, and fibroblasts, influencing diverse cellular processes. They interact with extracellular ligands andtransduce intracellular signals, functioning as membrane receptors with cell type-specific effects, triggering anti-inflammatory, proliferative, fibrotic, or carcinogenic processes.