Examples of chemical and enzymatic mediators in bodily fluids include:
- Sebum (skin)
- Oleic acid (skin)
- Saliva (digestive tract)
- Urine (urinary tract)
- Lactate (reproductive system)
- Cerumen (ears)
- Lysozyme and lactoferrin (tears in eyes; respiratory tract)
- Surfactant (respiratory tract)

Examples of Chemical and Enzymatic Mediators in Bodily Fluids

Chemical and enzymatic mediators found in bodily fluids act to inhibit or kill microbes, acting as layers of defense.

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Types of innate immune chemical defenses include:
- Chemical and enzymes in body fluids
- Antimicrobial peptides
- Plasma protein mediators
- Cytokines
- Inflammation-eliciting mediators

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Types of Innate Immune Chemical Defenses

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Innate Immune Chemical Defenses Table (Figure 17.5). Reprinted from OpenStax Microbiology (p. 699-700), by N. Parker, M. Shneegurt, A.-h. Thi Tu, B. M. Forester, and P. Lister, 2016, Rice University. Copyright 2016 by Rice University.

Innate Immune Chemical Defenses Table

Proteins found in blood plasma that contribute to the innate immune response

Plasma Protein Mediators

Cytokines are proteins secreted by cells that play an instrumental role in cell maturation and differentiation. Cytokines may act in an autocrine (acting on cells that secreted them), paracrine (communicating with nearby cells) or endocrine (affecting distant cells) manner. Cytokines are involved in the production of an inflammatory phenotype and severe dysregulation of cytokine signaling pathways may result in autoinflammatory disorders (AIDs). 

Cytokines

Nonspecific cell-derived mediators known for their wide range of antimicrobial properties. Can be produced constantly or via response to pathogen. Causes microbial cell damage in several ways including destroying DNA and RNA. Can inhibit a spectrum of pathogens.

Antimicrobial Peptides (AMPs)

Chemical and Enzymatic Mediators Found in Body Fluids

The inflammatory response, triggered by cell distress, protects against pathogens, removes dead cells, and stimulates repair mechanisms. Though, too much inflammation can be detrimental to health.

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