Chapter 15, Problem 7CT

Summary Introduction

To answer:

Sweat glands in the armpits secrete perspiration with a pH close to neutral (7.0). How this fact does helps to explain body odor in this area as compared to the other parts of the skin?

Introduction:

Sweat glands function as a body defense system by secreting the perspiration. This perspiration has antimicrobial peptides, salt, and lysozyme. The antimicrobial peptides are used to act against the Gram-negative, Gram-positive bacteria and fungi. The salt and low pH do not affect the action of antimicrobial peptides. The lysozyme helps to resist the growth of microbial action in the sweat by lysing the cell wall of bacteria.