MUC5B is the major mucin in the gel phase of sputum in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

ABSTRACT:

Rationale

Overproduction of mucus is a contributory factor in the progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The polymeric mucins are major macromolecules in the secretion. Therefore, we hypothesized that the polymeric mucin composition or properties may be different in the sputum from individuals with COPD and smokers without airflow obstruction.

Objectives

To determine the major polymeric mucins in COPD sputum and whether these are different in the sputum from individuals with COPD compared with that from smokers without airflow obstruction.

Methods

The polymeric mucin composition of sputum from patients with COPD and smokers without airflow obstruction was analyzed by Western blotting analysis. The tissue localization of the mucins was determined

SUBMITTER: Kirkham S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2643221 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature