part of serous secreting cell tracheobronchial serous cell serous cell of epithelium of trachea https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_1000330 FMA:263078 A serous secreting cell that is part of the epithelium of trachea. Serous cells are specialized epithelial cells and can be found lining the trachea and brochus. They are among the major components of the respiratory epithelium. These cells are known for their production and release of serous secretions, which form a key component of airway mucus. These secretions primarily comprise of water, proteins, and enzymes, such as lysozyme and peroxidases. Their main purposes are to provide hydration and lubrication to the airway tissue and to act as a defense mechanism against pathogens. While the lysozyme and peroxidases contribute to the destruction of bacteria, the water in the secretions helps to liquefy the mucus, facilitating the effective functioning of the ciliated cells that propel the mucus up the trachea. The coordinated action between serous cells and other cell types in the tracheal epithelium proves essential for maintaining a healthy respiratory tract. Dysfunction or damage of these cells can lead to various respiratory tract disorders, such as cystic fibrosis and asthma. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) Homo sapiens epithelium of trachea