Question

Cholesterol is the predominant sterol in animal's cell membranes and is it the parent for the synthesis of ________________________________________.

Answer 1

Cholesterol is essential for producing steroid hormones, vitamin D, and bile salts, and it plays a structural role in animal cell membranes.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cholesterol is the predominant sterol in animal cell membranes and is the parent compound for the synthesis of steroid hormones, vitamin D, and bile salts. As the most common steroid, cholesterol is mainly synthesized in the liver and is essential for several vital functions in the body.

For instance, it is critical in the production of sex hormones like testosterone and estradiol, which are secreted by the gonads and endocrine glands. Additionally, cholesterol is necessary for the creation of vitamin D and plays a key role in the formation of bile salts that aid in the emulsification and absorption of fats.

Furthermore, cholesterol contributes to the structural integrity of cell membranes by providing rigidity. This amphipathic molecule is inserted into the phospholipid bilayer of animal cell membranes, facilitating the flow of substances into and out of cells and supporting cell signaling and communication.

Despite its negative reputation among laypeople, cholesterol is indispensable for the proper functioning of the body, impacting everything from the brain to the plasma membrane and the myelin sheath of nerve cells.

Answer 2

Steroids. Other than their composition of cell membranes, they are also used as signaling molecules. Sterols are a category of lipids aside from phospholipids and glycolipids. Cholesterol is the main sterol that is used in the synthesis of cell membranes. Cholesterol is useful in maintaining fluidity of the cell membrane that is critical in transport of molecules into and out of the cells