Question

Which of the following are properties of cholesterol found in plasma membranes?

I. Reduces permeability of the membrane to hydrophilic ions
II. Acts as a channel for ion movement
III. It is amphipathic
IV. Reduces fluidity of the membrane
A. I and III only
B. II and IV only
C. I and IV only
D. I, III and IV only

Answer 1

Cholesterol found in plasma membranes reduces permeability to hydrophilic ions, is amphipathic, and reduces fluidity of the membrane.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cholesterol found in plasma membranes has the following properties:

1. Reduces permeability of the membrane to hydrophilic ions.
2. It is amphipathic, meaning it has both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions.
3. Reduces fluidity of the membrane.

Based on these properties, the correct answer is option D: I, III and IV only.