Molluscs as Experimental Models for the Study of Mucomics

Mucomics is the study of mucus and its biochemical properties. This discpline has gained increasing attention due to the critical roles mucus plays in protection, adhesion, and communication across species. Ethical restriction on vertebrate research have driven interest in invertebrate models such as molluscs. Molluscs produce a large amount of mucus which several functions including immune defense, digestion, and environmental adaptation. Molluscs - terrestrial, freshwater, or marine - are valuable models for investigating mucus composition and its responses to environmental stressors, including heavy metal contamination. Histochemical and glycomic techniques have revealed variations in mucin glycosylation patterns that influence mucus functionality, such as its viscoelastic and adhesive properties. Bivalves, widely used as bioindicators, accumulate pollutants in their mucus, reflecting environmental health. Investigative techniques such as lectin histochemistry, proteomic, and glycomic analyses provide insights into the impact of contaminants on mucus composition. Further research on molluscan mucins can enhance understanding of their physiological roles, environmental interactions, and potential biomedical applications. By integrating molecular and histochemical approaches, mucomic studies offer a comprehensive perspective on mucus function, advancing both ecological monitoring and biotechnological applications.