Table 1.

Main components of natural mucus associated with wound healing and their functions

Components	Representative molecules	Primary categories	Function and mechanism	Ref.
Amino acids	Proline, lysine, cysteine, glutamic acid, aspartic acid	Structural molecules; Signaling molecules; Immunomodulatory molecules	Form ionic bonds with tissue surfaces via H-bonds/π-π stacking; Enhance viscosity, elasticity, and resistance to wound environmental factors	27
Protein	Mucins, enzymes, collagen, cytokines, antimicrobial peptides	Structural molecules; Signaling molecules; Hemostatic agents; Antimicrobial agents; Immunomodulatory molecules	Cross linked network provides shear-resistant scaffolds; Enhance cell adhesion and angiogenesis; Prevent infection	28
Polysaccharides	Glycosaminoglycans, pectin, heparan sulfate, hyaluronic acid	Structural molecules; Hemostatic agents; Immunomodulatory molecules	Responsive pH/redox adhesion and dynamic bond reorganization contribute to the hydration and lubrication of the wound site.	29
Lipids	Polyunsaturated fatty acids, phospholipids,	Signaling molecules; Immunomodulatory molecules	Integrate into cell membranes; Suppress pro-inflammatory mediators	24
Inorganic salts	Electrolytes, trace elements	Hemostatic agents; Immunomodulatory molecules	Form stable hemostatic plugs by electrostatic crosslinking with mucins; Enhance ionic interactions with wound exudate to stabilize the dressing and prevent maceration.	30
Other organic compounds	Phenolics, flavonoids, catechols, quinone derivatives, nucleic acids	Antimicrobial agents; Signaling molecules; Immunomodulatory molecules	Disrupt bacterial cell membranes and prevent infection; Scavenge ROS	28