Final answer:
HMG-CoA reductase is an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis and is the target of statin drugs used to lower cholesterol levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
HMG-CoA reductase (hydroxymethylglutaryl CoA reductase) is an enzyme that plays a key role in cholesterol synthesis.
It catalyzes the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate, a five carbon compound.
Mevalonate is the precursor to cholesterol and is involved in the production of other important molecules like steroid hormones.
HMG-CoA reductase is the target of statin drugs, which are used to lower cholesterol levels.
By inhibiting this enzyme, statins reduce the production of cholesterol in the body.
In summary, HMG-CoA reductase is an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis and is the target of statin drugs used to lower cholesterol levels.