Researchers in the United States have discovered that the mucus produced by human mucosal cells in the respiratory and intestinal tracts contains biological substances that make bacteria more mobile, preventing harmful invaders from attaching to the body. The main component of mucus, called mucin, enhances the movement of bacteria, making it difficult for harmful germs to attach to the mucosal lining. This discovery could lead to the development of medications that treat bacterial infections in the same way. Unlike antibiotics, these medications would not kill bacteria, making it less likely for resistance to develop. Additionally, beneficial microbes in the body would be spared.
According to the researchers, “Mucins can suppress virulence by ensuring that bacteria are present as single cells.” The researchers conducted various laboratory experiments to examine how mucosal mucus affects the formation of a protective biofilm of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. The bacteria initially move as single cells in the nutrient solution, thanks to their flagella. After a short time, the bacteria form cell aggregates that collect on solid surfaces. Although the addition of mucin from the stomach lining did not completely prevent the deposition, the size of the deposit was significantly smaller than without mucin. Even after six hours, over 90% of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria remained floating, compared to just under 50% without mucin. Mucin keeps bacteria mobile and prevents larger cell aggregates.
The results of this study could lead to the development of new therapies for lung infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria, particularly in patients with cystic fibrosis. In such infections, the associated disrupted mucus production weakens the body’s defenses. Medications that work like mucin would be more effective than antibiotics in treating such infections. The researchers plan to investigate whether mucin is also responsible for defending the body against viruses in future studies.
