Above all, evidence from clinical and animal models profoundly suggests that alterations in the mucus layer, aberrant post-translational modifications, and differential expression of key mucins are critical factors in the pathogenesis and severity of several conditions including enteric infection, colorectal cancer, and IBD, further emphasizing the importance of maintaining mucin levels within a healthy homeostatic range. The gene discussed is MUC5AC; the disease is inflammatory bowel disease.