Alexa Fluor® 594 Anti-Mucin 5AC antibody [EPR16904]

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Mucin 5AC also known simply as MUC5AC is a high molecular weight glycoprotein with a mass in the megadaltons typically found in the human respiratory gastrointestinal and reproductive tracts. It is a major component of mucus which plays a critical role in protecting and lubricating the epithelial surfaces of these organs. MUC5AC is primarily expressed in the goblet cells of the respiratory epithelium and the stomach lining. Due to its significance researchers often use a MUC5AC ELISA or other detection methods such as tagging with Alexa Fluor 555 to measure its levels in various tissues.

Biological function summary

The functions of MUC5AC are central to the maintenance of the protective mucus barrier on epithelial surfaces preventing pathogen invasion and facilitating the clearance of inhaled particles. It is a part of the gel-forming mucin family and often forms complex structures by polymerizing with other mucins like MUC2 and MUC5B contributing to the viscoelastic properties of mucus. These interactions ensure the formation of a stable and robust mucosal barrier.

Pathways

The regulation of MUC5AC production involves several signaling pathways including the EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) pathway and the IL-13/STAT6 pathway. These pathways influence mucin production and secretion particularly in response to growth factors and inflammatory cytokines. Proteins such as 13M1 and 11M1 interact with MUC5AC within these pathways modulating its expression and function. This regulation is essential for normal mucus homeostasis and response to environmental challenges.

Associated diseases and disorders

MUC5AC has a strong association with respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In these diseases the overproduction or altered composition of MUC5AC contributes to airway obstruction and reduced pulmonary function. MUC5AC levels can be indicative of disease severity and are often measured via tests like the 5AC blood test. In these contexts proteins such as 5AC protein and 45M1 are often studied for their roles in facilitating disease progression and as potential therapeutic targets to modulate mucin levels in affected individuals.