Have we neglected Goblet cells and their importance?

Parnad Basu, Amity University Kolkata

Goblet cells are modified epithelial cells that secrete mucus on the surface of mucous membranes of intestines and airways. The primary function of the intestinal epithelial GCs is to generate a protective mucus layer lining, which when hampered can lead to IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease). GCs accomplish this by secreting mucins (MUC2), large glycoproteins.

Chemically induced colitis in mice can be controlled by maintaining normal Goblet cells function. Ca²⁺ and voltage-activated K⁺ channel (BK channels) in association with LRRC26 (Leucine-Rich Repeat Containing Protein 26) help in maintaining the normal GC function. Despite being present in colonic epithelial cells of different species, ion transport in GC has not attracted enough attention as it should in comparison to the absorptive enterocytes.

Colonic epithelial BK channels when stimulated with purines, adrenaline, aldosterone play an important role in the case of K⁺ secretion. To achieve necessary activation, BK channels require elevation of cytosolic Ca²⁺ and membrane depolarization. In short, a regulatory subunit may be required for BK channels to be activated. That subunit is none other than LRRC26 as it helps in contributing to epithelial K⁺ efflux. This particular study also indicates that in mouse distal colonic epithelium, Goblet cells lineage cells do contain BK current. The finding leads to the belief that this is most likely the case in humans as well. Not just that, it also points out that the functional contributions of BK channels are very much linked to the functional roles of GCs. Having said that, further studies on this topic may provide an important understanding of IBD pathophysiology.

Also read: BOREAL BATS COPES UP WITH CHILLS IN THIS WAY

Reference:- 

Goblet cell LRRC26 regulates BK channel activation and protects against colitis in mice, Vivian M Gonzalez-Perez, Pedro L Martinez-Espinosa, Monica Sala-Rabanal, Nikhil Bharadwaj, Xiaoming Xia, Albert C Chen, David Alvarado, Jenny K Gustafsson, Hongzhen Hu, Matthew A Ciorba, Christopher J Lingle bioRxiv 2020.10.23.341396; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.10.23.341396

• Why Do We Age? The Biology Of Ageing Explained
• The Corrosion Prediction from the Corrosion Product Performance
• Nitrogen Resilience in Waterlogged Soybean plants
• Cell Senescence in Type II Diabetes: Therapeutic Potential
• Transgene-Free Canker-Resistant Citrus sinensis with Cas12/RNP