Mucin layers and multilayers — Physicochemical properties and applications

The present review summarizes recent, and important previous, findings on properties of mucin layers and multilayers and ways to tailor their properties. Specifically, progress has been made in understanding the effects of mucin type, preparations, ambient conditions and surface properties on adsorption and on mixed layer assembly including multilayers. Apart from structural features the stability, lubrication and biological functions of such layers are addressed.