Answer to Question #328528 in Biochemistry for Andrew the god

Question

Draw the chemical structure of cholesterol and state its functions

Answer 1

Cholesterol is a structural component of cell membranes. It immobilises the outer surface of the membrane, reducing fluidity and makes the membrane less permeable to very small water-soluble molecules and prevents crystallisation of the membrane. It serves as precursor for synthesizing various steroid hormones( primarily sex hormones), vitamin D, and bile acids.