How does the skin act as a barrier to microbial invasion?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Secretions from sweat glands and sebaceous glands produce antimicrobial peptides, fatty acids, and lactic acid, which create a slightly acidic environment that inhibits bacterial growth. Additionally, the oil produced by sebaceous glands forms a protective barrier on the skin's surface, preventing bacteria from penetrating. The moist environment of the skin actually promotes bacterial growth, but the skin's other defenses help to counteract this. Dead skin cells, while not providing bacterial nutrients, do create a physical barrier that prevents bacteria from entering the body. However, choice C is the most accurate explanation of how the skin acts as a barrier to microbial invasion. Choice D is incorrect because the skin does not release B cells and T cells; these cells are produced in the bone marrow and thymus, respectively, and then travel to the skin and other organs to fight infections.

How Does the Skin Act as a Barrier to Microbial