Skin
- The?skin and mucous?membranes form a?primary defence?against pathogens that cause infectious disease
- Skin?is the largest organ of the body and is covered in?microorganisms?that usually cause no issues, as they can't enter the body. Skin provides:
- A?tough physical barrier?that prevents entry of?pathogens?into our bodies
- Cuts in the skin are sealed by formation of?blood clots?to prevent entry of pathogens
- Chemical protection?through the production of?sebum?from the sebaceous glands of the hair follicles
- Sebum is a chemical responsible for maintaining a?low skin pH?which inhibits the growth of microorganisms
- Mucous membranes?are found lining vulnerable areas which may be a route for pathogens into the body
- This includes the?airways, areas around the?reproductive organs?(foreskin and vagina)?and the?digestive system
- The membranes contain goblet cells which produce mucus containing?glycoproteins
- Microorganisms and particles become?trapped?by the mucus and are then either?swallowed?(into the stomach) or?expelled, therefore preventing infection
- Mucus also contains?lysozyme enzymes?which have?antibacterial?properties, providing more protection from invading microorganisms
