Which enzyme is present in tears and saliva to chemically break down bacterial cell walls?
Answer
Lysozyme
Lysozyme is specifically identified as an enzyme contained within secretions such as tears, saliva, and nasal secretions that possesses the active capability to inhibit or kill microbes by breaking down their cell walls. This action places lysozyme within the category of chemical defenses that complement the initial physical barriers. Chemical defenses like this operate non-specifically, meaning they target general characteristics common to many potential threats rather than targeting a specific bacterial strain or virus. This non-specific nature is a key characteristic differentiating these surface defenses from the targeted mechanisms of the internal immune system.
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