What type of skin cells produce the oil in the sebaceous glands?

The correct answer identifies secretory cells, which are responsible for producing sebum—the oil found in the sebaceous glands. These cells are specialized for the synthesis and secretion of substances, and in the case of sebaceous glands, they contribute to the maintenance of skin hydration and protection through the oily secretion.

Basal cells primarily serve as the progenitor cells within the epidermis, where they continually divide to replenish the outer skin layer. They do not have a direct role in the production of oil.

Keratinocytes are the predominant cell type in the epidermis, primarily responsible for producing keratin, a protein that provides structure and protection to the skin. While they are essential for skin health, they do not produce the oil found in sebaceous glands.

Adipocytes are fat cells that primarily store energy in the form of triglycerides and are found in adipose tissue rather than being involved in sebum production. Their function is not related to the secretory activity of sebaceous glands.

Understanding the specific roles of these cell types helps clarify the function of the sebaceous glands and highlights the specialized nature of secretory cells in the production of skin oils.