American Academy of Family Physicians Board Member Jay Lee, said Live Science says the viscous consistency of nasal mucus prevents bacteria and viruses from entering the respiratory tract.
The doctor noted that nasal mucus is more than a physical barrier against airborne pathogens. Mucus also contains antiviral and antibacterial components, including antibodies and proteins produced by the immune system to fight infections. Additionally, nasal secretions contain lysosomes, specialized cellular units that contain enzymes that break down invading pathogens.
Normal nasal mucus has a viscous consistency due to molecules with gel-forming properties known as mucins. The structure of these molecules is similar to a plant with many branches; They have a thin, long base and hairy branches coming out from it. This unique shape allows mucins to bind together into a network that can resist shape changes. Therefore, the mucus in the nose can quickly return to its original shape, even if its structure is disrupted for a short time, for example, when blowing the nose.
The chemical structure of mucins also gives them the ability to bind to significant numbers of water molecules, which contributes to their thick, gelatinous texture. Mucins can prevent pathogenic microbes, such as Staphylococcus aureus bacteria or Candida albicans yeast, from adhering to the inner walls of the nose.
used to be a doctor saidWhat diseases in the nose and throat indicate stomach problems.