BIOM 2000 Lecture Notes - Lecture 15: Natural Killer Cell, Extracellular Fluid, Pathogenic Bacteria
16 Mar 2016
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Document Summary
Epidermis of the skin is made up of dead cells that are filled with keratin (a tough protein) The surface of this layer is always being swiped off, and microorganisms on the skin surface are shed with it. Provides protection from various kinds of damage: Eccrine glands (sweat): secrete an acidic solution slows down bacterial growth. Sebaceous glands (oil): hair follicles, secrete sebum, which contains anti- bacterial compounds that kill bacteria before they can invade the skin surface. Line all body cavities that are open to the exterior (respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproduction) Respiratory and digestive tract (and reproductive in women), produce mucus that contains antibacterial substances. Constantly bathed in secreted fluid which inhibits microorganisms from reaching the underlying tissues. Acidic mucous of the female reproductive tract inhibits bacterial growth. The acid and digestive enzymes of the stomach kill pathogens. Saliva and tears contain enzymes that kill bacteria. Returns interstitial fluid back to the circulatory system to prevent edema.
