Biology

Biology
Interactive Body

WJEC EDUQAS

Click on the parts of the body to explore defences against microbes.

Tears wash the surface of the eye every time you blink. They also contain the enzyme lysozyme which destroys any microbes which try to settle here.

The mucus in the trachea traps any microbes which might invade and damage the lungs. The cilia brush the mucus up the trachea so that it can be swallowed.

Microbes which are swallowed are usually killed by the pH2 acid in the stomach.

Good microbes in the gut not only help out with digestion but also out-compete the pathogenic microbes and prevent them multiplying and causing problems.

Skin provides a barrier to microbes so they cannot get into your body where they would receive the warm, moist, nutrient filled environment that they could rapidly multiply in.

Skin is slightly acidic to deter microbial growth and the sweat and oils secreted kill many microbes.

When the skin is cut blood leaks out and microbes can get in so it is important to seal the wound as soon as possible. Platelets are activated and cause the blood to clot closing the wound and preventing any more microbes getting in.

When the skin is cut and microbes enter through the skin, inflammation causes blood to rush to the area. Phagocytes squeeze through the pores in the capillaries and engulf and digest invading bacteria.