Which of the following enzyme present in saliva acts as an antibacterial agent that prevents infection?

Options

A. Salivary amylase
B. Thiocyanate
C. Lysozyme
D. Chitinase

Answer

To solve the question of which enzyme present in saliva acts as an antibacterial agent that prevents infection, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Identify the Enzymes in Saliva
Saliva contains several enzymes, including:
- Salivary amylase
- Lysozyme
- Thiocyanate
- Chitinase

### Step 2: Understand the Functions of Each Enzyme
- **Salivary Amylase**: This enzyme primarily helps in the digestion of carbohydrates by breaking down starch into sugars. It does not have antibacterial properties.
- **Thiocyanate**: This compound can have some antibacterial effects, but it is not primarily recognized as an enzyme.
- **Lysozyme**: This enzyme has a well-known antibacterial function. It works by breaking down the cell walls of bacteria, leading to their lysis (destruction).
- **Chitinase**: This enzyme breaks down chitin, which is found in the exoskeletons of fungi and insects, but it is not involved in antibacterial activity in the human mouth.

### Step 3: Determine the Correct Answer
Given the functions of these enzymes, **Lysozyme** is the enzyme that acts as an antibacterial agent in saliva. It helps to prevent infections by lysing bacteria.

### Final Answer
The correct answer is **C - Lysozyme**.

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