part of part of cell eukaryotic cell sebaceous gland cell 2014-06-24T23:17:00Z https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_2000021 Any native cell that is part of a sebaceous gland. CL:2000021 Sebaceous gland cells, also known as sebocytes, are small, oil-producing glands present in the skin of mammals. These specialized cells are predominantly located in the dermis, particularly on the face, scalp, and upper body. The primary function of sebaceous gland cells is the production and secretion of sebum, a complex mixture of lipids including triglycerides, wax esters, squalene, and metabolites of fat-soluble vitamins (such as vitamin E), as well as free fatty acids. The production process involves a unique form of programmed cell death called holocrine secretion. In this process, as sebaceous gland cells mature, they progressively accumulate lipid droplets, before ultimately disintegrating and releasing their lipid-rich contents into the gland's ductal system. The sebum generated by these cells serves multiple purposes. It acts as a waterproofing agent, preventing excessive wetting or drying of the skin and averaging skin's water-holding capacity. Sebum also has antimicrobial properties, providing a natural defense barrier against certain bacterial and fungal species. Additionally, it contributes to the skin’s suppleness and prevents it from becoming brittle. An overproduction or imbalance of sebaceous gland cells can lead to common skin disorders, such as acne, seborrhea, or rosacea, illustrating their importance in skin health. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) sebaceous gland