MUC2
GeneName
MUC2
Summary
MUC2, also known as MCM or MUC-2, is a high molecular weight glycoprotein that plays a pivotal role in the formation of the protective mucus layer in the gastrointestinal tract. It is primarily expressed by goblet cells in the intestinal epithelium and is secreted into the outer mucus layer, where it contributes to the structural integrity and viscosity of mucus. MUC2 is involved in various biological processes, including mucus secretion, maintenance of gastrointestinal epithelium, and the host-mediated regulation of intestinal microbiota composition. Additionally, it has the ability to bind cupric and cuprous ions, suggesting a role in detoxification of copper ions within the gut environment.
Importance
MUC2 is relevant to: - Gastrointestinal health and disease, particularly in conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) where mucus barrier function is compromised - Regulation of gut microbiota, influencing host-microbe interactions and overall gut homeostasis - Mucosal immunity, as it serves as a physical barrier to pathogens and plays a role in immune responses - Potential therapeutic target in diseases associated with mucus dysregulation, including colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal disorders
Top Products
For researchers investigating MUC2, we recommend two excellent primary antibodies. The first is the well-cited Anti-MUC2 antibody [996/1] (ab11197), which has garnered 46 citations and is particularly noted for its performance in immunohistochemistry (IHC). This antibody is a trusted choice for those looking to study MUC2 in tissue samples. Additionally, we offer the recombinant antibody, Anti-MUC2 antibody [EPR23479-47] (ab272692), which has been validated in both IHC and western blotting (WB). With 94 citations, this recombinant product is gaining recognition in the research community for its reliability and versatility. Together, these antibodies provide robust options for researchers aiming to explore the role of MUC2 in various biological contexts. The Human MUC2 ELISA Kit (ab282871), supported by 3 citations, is an excellent option for researchers looking to accurately measure MUC2 levels in their samples.
Abcam Product Citation Summary
The data indicates that the MUC2 antibody (ab11197) has been extensively used in various applications, including immunofluorescence and western blotting, primarily in human colorectal cancer cells and intestinal tissues from domestic piglets. The studies focus on the role of MUC2 in goblet cells and intestinal epithelial barrier functions, highlighting its significance in gastrointestinal health and disease.
Abcam Product Citation Table
Domain
The CTCK domain mediates interchain disulfide bonds with another molecule of MUC2.
Function
Coats the epithelia of the intestines and other mucus membrane-containing organs to provide a protective, lubricating barrier against particles and infectious agents at mucosal surfaces (PubMed:17058067, PubMed:19432394, PubMed:33031746). Major constituent of the colon mucus, which is mainly formed by large polymeric networks of MUC2 secreted by goblet cells that cover the exposed surfaces of intestine (PubMed:19432394, PubMed:33031746). MUC2 networks form hydrogels that guard the underlying epithelium from pathogens and other hazardous matter entering from the outside world, while permitting nutrient absorption and gas exchange (PubMed:33031746, PubMed:36206754). Acts as a divalent copper chaperone that protects intestinal cells from copper toxicity and facilitates nutritional copper unptake into cells (PubMed:36206754). Binds both Cu(2+) and its reduced form, Cu(1+), at two juxtaposed binding sites: Cu(2+), once reduced to Cu(1+) by vitamin C (ascorbate) or other dietary antioxidants, transits to the other binding site (PubMed:36206754). MUC2-bound Cu(1+) is protected from oxidation in aerobic environments, and can be released for nutritional delivery to cells (PubMed:36206754). Mucin gels store antimicrobial molecules that participate in innate immunity (PubMed:33031746). Mucin glycoproteins also house and feed the microbiome, lubricate tissue surfaces, and may facilitate the removal of contaminants and waste products from the body (PubMed:33031746). Goblet cells synthesize two forms of MUC2 mucin that differ in branched chain O-glycosylation and the site of production in the colon: a (1) 'thick' mucus that wraps the microbiota to form fecal pellets is produced in the proximal, ascending colon (By similarity). 'Thick' mucus transits along the descending colon and is lubricated by a (2) 'thin' MUC2 mucus produced in the distal colon which adheres to the 'thick' mucus (By similarity).
Post-translational modifications
O-glycosylated (PubMed:11445551, PubMed:33031746). O-glycosylation is required for mucin assembly (PubMed:33031746). Goblet cells synthesize two forms of mucin that differ in branched chain O-glycosylation and the site of production in the colon (By similarity).
May undergo proteolytic cleavage in the outer mucus layer of the colon, contributing to the expanded volume and loose nature of this layer which allows for bacterial colonization in contrast to the inner mucus layer which is dense and devoid of bacteria.
At low pH of 6 and under, undergoes autocatalytic cleavage in vitro in the N-terminal region of the fourth VWD domain. It is likely that this also occurs in vivo and is triggered by the low pH of the late secretory pathway.
Tissue Specificity
Colon, small intestine, colonic tumors, bronchus, cervix and gall bladder.
Cellular localization
- Secreted
- In the intestine, secreted into the inner and outer mucus layers (By similarity). Before secretion, mucin polymers are stored in dedicated secretory vesicles (PubMed:33031746).
Alternative names
SMUC, MUC2, Mucin-2, MUC-2, Intestinal mucin-2