Role of Follicles in Hair Growth and Reproduction

the follicles

site of egg production and hormone secretion- located in cortex

Follicles are small, rounded structures that are found in various parts of the body. In the context of human biology, the term ‘follicle’ typically refers to small sac-like structures that are located in the skin and are associated with hair growth.

Hair follicles are found all over the body except for certain areas such as the soles of our feet, palms and lips. Each hair follicle contains a hair shaft, sebaceous gland, and arrector pilli muscles which are all involved in hair growth, secretion of sebum and hair movement.

The hair follicle grows and develops in three main phases: anagen, catagen, and telogen. During anagen phase, the hair follicle is active, and the hair is growing. During catagen phase, the hair follicle begins to shrink and detach from the hair shaft. Finally, during telogen phase, the hair follicle is inactive, and the hair falls out, making way for a new hair to replace it.

Follicles also play a key role in the menstrual cycle of women, where they develop into ovarian follicles to release eggs which subsequent fertilisation leads to pregnancy.

In summary, the follicles perform essential functions in regulating hair growth both in the skin and ovaries, and play a vital role in the human body’s physiological and reproductive processes.

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