In this study we have applied a model to explain the reported subdiffusion of particles in mucus, based on the measured mean squared displacements (MSD). The model considers Brownian diffusion of particles in a confined geometry, made from permeable membranes. The applied model predicts a normal diffusive behavior at very short and long time lags, as observed in several experiments. In between these timescales, we find that the ''subdiffusive'' regime is only a transient effect, MSDft a ; a < 1. The only parameters in the model are the diffusion-coefficients at the limits of very short and long times, and the distance between the permeable membranes L. Our numerical results are in agreement with published experimental data for realistic assumptions of these parameters. Finally, we show that only particles with a diameter less than 40 nm are able to pass through a mucus layer by passive Brownian motion.
Aim of this study was to investigate the similarities and differences at macro- and microscale in the viscoelastic properties of mucus that covers the epithelia of the intestinal and respiratory tract. Natural mucus was collected from pulmonary and intestinal regions of healthy pigs. Macro-rheological investigations were carried out through conventional plate-plate rheometry. Microrheology was investigated using optical tweezers. Our data revealed significant differences both in macro- and micro-rheological properties between respiratory and intestinal mucus.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.