How do eyes defend against pathogens?

Tears. The main function of tears is to prevent drying of the cornea. In addition, tears flush foreign particles from the ocular surface, and transport antimicrobial proteins (lactoferrin, lysozyme, lipocalin, and beta-lysin) and immunoglobulins to the ocular surface to prevent infections.

Are tears a defense against pathogens?

Skin, tears and mucus are part of the first line of defence in fighting infection. They help to protect us against invading pathogens. You have beneficial bacteria growing on your skin, in your bowel and other places in the body (such as the mouth and the gut) that stop other harmful bacteria from taking over.

What is the main defense of the body against pathogens?

Natural barriers and the immune system defend the body against organisms that can cause infection. (See also Lines of Defense.) Natural barriers include the skin, mucous membranes, tears, earwax, mucus, and stomach acid. Also, the normal flow of urine washes out microorganisms that enter the urinary tract.

Which is a non-specific defence system against disease?

These first lines are general defences, and are not specific to fight against certain types of pathogen. They are called non-specific, and they can be physical or chemical barriers. The skin covers almost all parts of your body to prevent infection from pathogens.

What are the physical defenses of the body?

Table PageIndex{1}: Overview of Nonspecific Innate Immune Defenses Physical defenses Physical barriers Physical defenses Mechanical defenses Physical defenses Microbiome Chemical defenses Chemicals and enzymes in body fluids

How does the mucous membrane protect the eyes from infection?

Typically, mucous membranes are coated with secretions that fight microorganisms. For example, the mucous membranes of the eyes are bathed in tears, which contain an enzyme called lysozyme that attacks bacteria and helps protect the eyes from infection.

Which is the first line of defense against infection?

Nonspecific innate immunity provides a first line of defense against infection by nonspecifically blocking entry of microbes and targeting them for destruction or removal from the body.