Perhaps now, on our nation's 238th birthday, we should remember one very important lesson passed down from the Founders: every good machine needs a certain amount of lubrication to function well.
Apart from structural features the stability, lubrication and biological functions of such layers are addressed.
The functions of lubrication additives are to reduce the oxidative or thermal degradation of oil, reduce wear, minimize rust and corrosion, lessen the deposition of harmful deposits on lubricated parts and prevent destructive metal-to-metal contact [4].
Mucins are heavily glycosylated proteins with numerous functions including lubrication, cell signaling, and host defense against pathogens [ 73, 74].
Mucins are key components of epithelial layers, serving functions from lubrication to cell signalling to forming barriers to chemicals and pathogens.
While SZP gene [ 51] and protein expression is absent in costal cartilage natively, engineered neocartilage demonstrated the presence of this protein, which functions in lubrication in load-bearing, diarthrodial joints.
The glandular secretions, which constitute saliva, serve a variety of functions affecting lubrication, taste, the early stages of digestion, and the protection of soft and hard tissues against environmental insults [ 1, 2].
Saliva forms a film over teeth and mucosal surfaces in the mouth (Sas & Dawes 1997) and performs a number of functions, including lubrication, prevention of soft tissue desiccation and tooth demineralization and the maintenance of an ecological balance (Amerongen & Veerman 2002).
