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Mucociliary Clearance

Meaning

Mucociliary Clearance is a fundamental, non-specific defense mechanism of the respiratory tract, involving the coordinated, rhythmic beating of cilia on the epithelial cells that propel a layer of mucus and trapped foreign particles toward the pharynx for swallowing or expulsion. This continuous cleansing process is vital for maintaining the sterility of the lower airways and protecting the delicate gas-exchange surfaces from inhaled pathogens and environmental toxins.