Respiratory Biochemistry Quiz

Mucins in Airways

• Mucins, such as MUC5AC and MUC5B, are the major mucins produced in the airways.

Regulation of Mucin Secretion

• Mucin secretion is regulated by various factors, including inflammatory mediators, neurotransmitters, and hormones.

Myeloperoxidase Function

• Myeloperoxidase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the defense against bacterial and fungal infections by breaking down mucus, making it more susceptible to degradation.

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT) Function

• The primary function of α1-antitrypsin (AAT) is to inhibit elastase, a proteolytic enzyme that breaks down elastin, a key component of lung tissue.

Mutant Allele of AAT

• The Z mutant allele of α1-antitrypsin causes it to aggregate in the hepatocyte endoplasmic reticulum (ER), leading to its deficiency.

Leading Causes of Lung Cancer

• Smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer, while radon is the second leading cause.

Cotton Dust Exposure

• Exposure to cotton dust can cause byssinosis, a disease characterized by airway obstruction and lung inflammation.

Primary Protein Component of Mucus

• Mucins, particularly glycoproteins, are the primary protein components of mucus.

Regulation of Respiratory Acidosis or Alkalosis

• A major shift in the ratio of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood can lead to respiratory acidosis or respiratory alkalosis.

Mucin Secretion Regulation

• Mucin secretion is regulated by the parasympathetic nervous system.

Farmer's Lung

• The primary cause of farmer's lung is the inhalation of thermophilic actinomycetes, such as Saccharopolyspora rectivirgula, found in moldy hay.

Elastin Degradation

• Elastase is the enzyme responsible for degrading elastin, a key component of lung tissue.