What does the nail bed contain?

The nail bed is a specialized structure that provides support and nourishment to the nail plate as it grows. It contains blood vessels, which supply essential nutrients and oxygen necessary for the growth and health of the nail. Additionally, it has nerve endings that allow for sensation, making the nail bed an area responsive to touch. Melanocytes are also present in the nail bed; these cells produce melanin, which can contribute to the pigmentation of the nail.

The other options do not accurately describe the contents of the nail bed. Bones and ligaments, for instance, support the structure of the fingers and toes but are not part of the nail bed itself. Hair follicles and sebaceous glands are found in the skin of the surrounding area but are not components of the nail bed. Collagen and elastin fibers may provide structural support in the skin layers, but they are not specific to the nail bed.