Hair follicles

Definition

Hair follicles are tubular structures in the skin from which hair grows. They play a crucial role in housing and protecting various microorganisms that form part of the skin's normal microbiota.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hair follicles provide a niche for commensal bacteria, fungi, and viruses, contributing to the skin's microbial ecosystem.
2. Infections such as folliculitis occur when pathogenic bacteria invade hair follicles, leading to inflammation.
3. Sebum produced by sebaceous glands associated with hair follicles can have antimicrobial properties.
4. The density and activity of hair follicles vary across different parts of the body, influencing microbial diversity.
5. Hair follicle structure includes the infundibulum, isthmus, and bulb, each supporting different microbiota.

Review Questions

• What role do hair follicles play in housing skin microbiota?
• How do pathogenic bacteria cause infections like folliculitis in hair follicles?
• What is the significance of sebum produced by sebaceous glands in relation to hair follicle health?

Related terms

Sebaceous Glands: Glands associated with hair follicles that secrete sebum.

Folliculitis: An infection of hair follicles characterized by inflammation and pus formation.

Infundibulum: The upper part of the hair follicle where it opens to the skin surface.