Final answer:
Lysozyme in lacrimal fluid serves as a natural antimicrobial agent, protecting the eye by breaking down the cell walls of bacteria and working with other components to prevent the colonization of pathogens.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lysozyme is an enzyme found in lacrimal fluid, which is the fluid produced by the lacrimal gland to moisten the eyes. The primary function of lysozyme is to protect the eye from infection by breaking down the cell walls of bacteria, thus acting as a natural antimicrobial agent.
This enzyme along with other antimicrobial components like defensins and lactoferrin, help to prevent the colonization of pathogens on the surface of the eye. The lacrimal apparatus, which includes the lacrimal gland, lacrimal puncta, and the lacrimal sac, facilitates the production and drainage of tears, ensuring that these antimicrobial compounds continuously wash away potential infective agents.