The image shows the mucus layer (blue band) that protects the intestinal wall (pink) against bacteria and other things (dark blue at the top of the picture). The blue cells in the intestinal wall are ...

(BOSTON) -- We have a mutualistic but complicated relationship with the collection of microbes in our gut known as the intestinal microbiome. This complex community of bacteria breaks down different ...

Understanding how mucus changes, and what it changes in response to, can help diagnose illnesses and develop treatments. Researchers develop a system to grow mucus-producing intestinal cells and study ...

A low-fiber “Western diet” causes damage to the protective mucus barrier in the gut, and such damage can increase the risk of inflammation and infection. By studying the gut bacteria of people who ...

Mucus consists mainly of water and a gel-forming molecule called mucin. The body uses mucus to protect tissues, remove particles, and prevent infections. Mucus is essential for the functioning of many ...