Which layer of the digestive tract is responsible for mucus secretion?

The mucosa layer of the digestive tract is primarily responsible for mucus secretion. This layer lines the interior surface of the digestive system and contains specialized cells, such as goblet cells, that produce mucus. This mucus plays several crucial roles, including lubricating the passage of food, protecting the lining of the digestive tract from digestive enzymes and acidic environments, and facilitating absorption of nutrients.

The mucosa consists of three sub-layers: an epithelium, a lamina propria, and a muscularis mucosae. The epithelial cells of the mucosa are where the secretion of mucus occurs. In contrast, the other layers of the digestive tract, such as the submucosa, muscularis, and serosa, have different functions that include providing structural support and muscle contraction for movement, but they do not play a direct role in mucus production.