Kehanäärmete

Kehanäärmete, often translated as "body hair glands" or more specifically related to apocrine sweat glands, refers to a type of gland found in the skin of many mammals, including humans. These glands are primarily located in specific areas such as the armpits, groin, and around the nipples. Their primary function is to secrete a milky or yellowish substance that is rich in lipids and proteins.

The secretion from kehanäärmete is odorless when initially released. However, it can be broken down by bacteria present on the skin's surface, leading to the characteristic body odor associated with these areas. This process is influenced by various factors including diet, hormones, and individual bacterial flora.

The development and activity of kehanäärmete are closely linked to hormonal changes, particularly during puberty. In humans, these glands are thought to play a role in scent communication and attraction, though this function is less prominent than in some other mammals. In certain animals, the secretions may serve as pheromones, conveying information about reproductive status or territorial boundaries.

The structure of kehanäärmete differs from eccrine sweat glands, which are distributed more widely across the body and primarily function in thermoregulation by secreting a watery fluid. Kehanäärmete have a coiled glandular portion and a duct that typically opens into a hair follicle, rather than directly onto the skin surface.