Question

Think about what a potential pathogen like a bacteria or a virus would have to overcome in order to get into your body, or Charlie’s body, and then into the target tissue to untimely make you sick. List several (at least three) of these critical barriers and how they help to eliminate pathogens. Describe how these mechanisms are or could be related to the symptoms you often get when someone falls ill (for example with the cold or a stomach flu).

Answer 1

There are three anatomical barriers in our immune system skin, the mucous membranes, and bony encasements.

The skin, consist of dermis or epidermis layer that provide conditions which are not favorable to bacterial growth. Normal biota present in skin inhibits potentially harmful microbes. Sweat glands and hair follicles produces toxic lipids and lysozyme that can kill bacteria. Symptoms rise due to skin barrier is redness, itching and allergy.

Mucous membranes are present in the lining of body cavities such as the genitourinary tract, the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory tract. These membranes are made up of epithelial cell and secerets mucus that traps microbes and avoid their entry into the body tissues. Mucus also contains lysozyme that is responsible for degrading bacterial peptidoglycan. Symptoms rise due to mucous membrane are coughing, sneezing and sour throat.

Bony encasements are present in skull and rib cage that avoid direct contact of organs from injury and entry of microbes.