TH1.H2.2D3 +D4 Trachea and Extrapulmonary Bronchi

Submucosal Gland (D3):

    Submucosal Gland 1

    This micrograph shows a submucosal gland in the wall of the trachea. Glands such as this contribute to the mucus which forms a layer overlying the cilia (L = lumen of trachea, D = duct of gland, G = mucous gland)

Submucosal Gland (D4):

    Submucosal Gland 1
  • As well as trapping particulate material that is breathed in, eg soot particles, the mucus lining the respiratory tract also traps macrophages
  • Macrophages scavenge for dirt particles, bacteria etc in the alveoli deep within the lung tissue
  • When they become engorged, they move up the bronchiolar tree to get out of the alveoli
  • When they reach the part of the bronchiolar tree where mucus is secreted they become trapped and, by ciliary action, the mucus containing the trapped macrophages is passed up to the pharynx
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