The lubricity of mucin solutions is robust toward changes in physiological conditions

摘要: Solutions of manually purified gastric mucins have been shown to be promising lubricants for biomedical purposes, where they can efficiently reduce friction and wear. However, so far, such mucin solutions mostly tested in specific settings, variations the composition lubricating fluid not systematically explored. We here fill this gap determine viscosity, adsorption behavior, lubricity porcine on hydrophobic surfaces at different pH levels, salt concentrations presence other proteins. demonstrate that provide excellent even very low 0.01 % (w/v), over a broad range levels elevated ionic strength. Furthermore, we mechanistic insights into lubricity, which help explain how certain physiologically relevant parameters limit potential solutions. Our results motivate powerful lubricants, e.g. serving as eye drops, mouth sprays or personal lubricant intercourse.