Which structure is responsible for the production of mucus in the nasal cavity?

Goblet cells are specialized epithelial cells found in various parts of the body, including the respiratory tract, where they play a crucial role in maintaining moisture and protecting surfaces. In the nasal cavity, goblet cells are responsible for the production and secretion of mucus. This mucus serves multiple functions: it traps dust, pathogens, and other airborne particles, preventing them from entering the lower respiratory system, and it moisturizes the inhaled air, maintaining an optimal environment for respiratory function.

While ciliated epithelium, basal cells, and serous cells play important roles in the respiratory system, they do not produce mucus. The ciliated epithelium works in tandem with mucus by moving the mucus along the surface to clear debris and pathogens. Basal cells act as progenitor cells that can differentiate into other cell types, including goblet cells, but they themselves do not secrete mucus. Serous cells secrete a watery fluid that plays a different role in respiratory secretions, such as providing enzymes, but again, they do not produce mucus. Thus, the role of goblet cells is specifically linked to mucus production in the nasal cavity.