4.1.

1 First line of defence (barriers to prevent

pathogen entry)
SKIN
 physical barrier if intact
 dryness prevents microbial growth
 Sebaceous glands contain bacteria that feed
off the sebum (oil) but have a mutual
relationship with us as they produce acids
that repel many pathogens
MUCOUS MEMBRANES
 Mucous = viscous substance secreted by
interior linings of organs (esp. respiratory,
digestive and urinary systems)
 Pathogens get trapped before reaching organ
surface
 Mucous often contains
lysozymes (enz) that
breakdown walls of some
bacteria or the antibody
IgA which prevents
attachment of some
viruses and bacteria
to the epithelial surface
CILIA
 Tiny hairs that project from the cells lining
the mucous membranes
 Sweep mucous and trapped microbes out of
the body
 ?? Why is spitting so unhealthy

SEM
Cilia in
trachea
CHEMICAL BARRIERS
 Acidic environment in many organs
 Eg. stomach, vagina, urethra

OTHER BODY SECRETIONS

 Tears = antibacterial and flush eyes
 Saliva = wash bacteria from between teeth and
into stomach
 Bile = alkaline substance
released into small intestine,
rapid change in pH, harder
for microbes to survive
 Urine = sterile, acidic fluid
that flushes the urinary tract