Innate immunity: anatomical barriers

on 7.9.08 with 0 comments




  • skin

    • dry and acidic environment

    • keratinocytes are sloughed off

    • impermeable to water

    • sebum contains toxic lipids

  • mucous membranes

    • mucus traps microbes

    • lysozyme degrades cell wall of bacteria

    • secretory IgA (and IgG) block attachment by recognizing bacterial surface adhesins

    • lactoferrin sequesters iron; manganese is also restricted

    • lactoperoxidase synthesizes toxic oxidants that can kill bacteria



Category: Microbiology Notes

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