MUC2

Full Name

Mucin 2, oligomeric mucus/gel-forming

Keywords

MLP; SMUC; MUC-2; mucin-2; mucin 2, intestinal/tracheal

Background

This is a member of the mucin protein family. Mucins are high molecular weight glycoproteins produced by many epithelial tissues. The protein encoded by this gene is secreted and forms an insoluble mucous barrier that protects the gut lumen. The protein polymerizes into a gel of which 80% is composed of oligosaccharide side chains by weight. The protein features a central domain containing tandem repeats rich in threonine and proline that varies between 50 and 115 copies in different individuals. Downregulation of this gene has been observed in patients with Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis.