Abstract
The effects of the divalent ions calcium, magnesium and copper on the rheologic and mucociliary transport properties of canine tracheal mucus have been investigated. A maximum in the viscoelastic moduli of the mucus gel was observed for each ion around a concentration of 5 × 10−4M and this corresponded to an optimum in transport on the toad palate (Bufo marinus). Since no demonstrable change occurred in the charge on the glycoprotein molecule as indicated by constant electrophoretic mobility, it is assumed that the effect is produced by a change in conformation of the molecule. Similar effects in vivo may he of consequence in clearance from the lung and in the reproductive function of cervical mucus.
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