Question

The cells that produce hair made of protein contain a lot of ________, while the cells that produce the oils that coat the hair contain a lot of ________?

1) keratin, sebum
2) collagen, melanin
3) elastin, sweat
4) hemoglobin, mucus

Answer 1

Keratinocytes produce the protein keratin, which makes up hair, while sebaceous glands produce sebum that oils and protects the hair.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cells that produce hair, which is primarily made of the protein keratin, are called keratinocytes. Keratinocytes are specialized cells in the skin that manufacture and store keratin, a fibrous protein that provides hardness and water-resistant properties to hair, nails, and skin. On the other hand, the cells that produce the oils that coat and protect the hair contain a lot of sebum, which is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands. Sebum waterproofs the hair and skin and helps prevent them from drying out, in addition to having antibacterial properties that inhibit the growth of microorganisms on the skin.