What is the role of cilia and mucus in the lungs?


The cilia and sticky mucus work together to protect the lungs from infection, forming what is known as a mucociliary escalator. The mucus traps any bacteria or pathogens as they enter the lungs, and the cilia, located on the surface of ciliated epithelium, move in a synchronised pattern to waft the mucus up the airway to the back of the throat where it can be swallowed and any pathogens can be killed by the acidity of the stomach.

Answered by Corrina H. Biology tutor

15878 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain what an 'enzyme' is.


What happens to the diaphragm during inspiration?


List 5 processes for which mammals need energy


What is a gene?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences