Biology Unit 4

Revision Notes

Text Book: p. 92 95

Topic 6: Infection, Immunity and Forensics
10. Describe the major routes pathogens may take
when entering the body and explain the role of
barriers in protecting the body from infection,
including the roles of skin, stomach acid, gut and skin
flora.
Pathogens enter the body through areas not covered by skin: nose, mouth, gas exchange surfaces,
the eyes, gastrointestinal tract and genital tract. The entry of micro-organisms through wounds is
also a major cause of infections.
Eyes tears contain the enzyme lysozyme which helps to digest microbes
Respiratory tract contains mucus which traps bacteria. The mucus is then swallowed
and passed into the digestive system
Gastrointestinal tract acid in the stomach helps to protect against any microbes
which are eaten. In addition the gut has its own bacteria. These compete with pathogens for
food and space which helps to protect us. The harmless bacteria also excrete lactic acid
which deters pathogens.
Skin the skin is a tough barrier and usually only allows pathogens to enter if it is cut. As an
additional line of defence the skin has its own microbes- skin flora. These live naturally on
the skin and out-compete pathogens. Sebum is an oily fluid which is made by the skin and
can also kill microbes.
Ways in which pathogens enter the body
Name How the body barriers prevent infection Example
Vector (organism that
transmits infection)
Blood clotting mechanism
Skin in tough and contains Keratin and
Sebum
Malaria, Dengue, Yellow Fever
Formites (inanimate
objects carry pathogens)
The skin, natural skin flora, vomiting Staphylococcus infections
Direct contact (skin
disease/sexual contact)
Lysozymes, defensive secretions, mucus,
skin flora
Impetigo, gonorrhoea, syphilis
Inhalation (coughing,
sneezing, talking)
Mucus, vomiting, lysozymes, cilia Influenza, measles, TB
Ingestion
(contaminated food)
Vomiting, mucus, saliva Diarrhoea, hepatitis A,
salmonella
Inoculation (break in
the skin)
Skin, antibodies, immune response, blood
clotting
Hepatitis B, HIV, rabies, tetanus