Barrier Functions of the Body

Barrier functions are protective functions that ensure the health of the body. They are carried out by special physiological mechanisms (barriers) that protect the body from environmental changes, prevent the penetration of bacteria, viruses and harmful substances into it, and help maintain the constant composition and properties of blood, lymph, and tissue fluid.

There are external and internal barriers. External include the skin, respiratory system, digestive system, incl. liver, as well as kidneys. The skin protects against physical and chemical influences and participates in thermoregulation. The respiratory system cleans the air of dust and harmful substances. The digestive system processes food and removes waste. The liver neutralizes toxins. The kidneys regulate the composition of the blood.

Internal barriers are between blood and tissues. The main role is played by blood capillaries. There are also specialized barriers between the blood and the nervous system, the eye, the inner ear, etc. The placental barrier function is important.

Barriers actively regulate the composition of tissue fluid and protect organs from toxins. Their condition affects the health of the body. Violation of barriers leads to diseases.