By measuring telomeres, some scientists believe they can determine biological age, which doesn't always equal chronological age. That means some people may be biologically older or younger than their age, said Jerry Shay, professor and vice chairman of cell biology at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.
It is of ectodermal origin and is continuous with the skin at various body openings such as the eyes, ears, nose and mouth, the urethral opening and the anus. Some mucous membranes secrete mucus, a thick protective fluid. The function of the membrane is to stop pathogens and dirt from entering the body and to prevent bodily tissues from becoming dehydrated.
In vertebrates, mucus (/mjuËkÉs/ MYOO-kÉss; adjectival form : mucous) is a slippery secretion produced by, and covering, mucous membranes. Mucous fluid is typically produced from cells found in mucous glands.ncreased mucus production in the respiratory tract is a symptom of many common illnesses, such as the common cold and influenza. Hypersecretion of mucus can occur in inflammatory respiratory diseases such as respiratory allergies, asthma, and chronic bronchitis.