Cholesterol

Definition

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body. It is essential for making hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help digest foods.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cholesterol is a key component of cell membranes in eukaryotic cells, providing structural integrity and fluidity.
2. In microbial biochemistry, cholesterol can influence the function and permeability of cellular membranes.
3. Certain antimicrobial drugs target pathways involved in cholesterol synthesis to disrupt microbial cell functions.
4. High levels of cholesterol in human hosts can affect drug efficacy by altering membrane properties.
5. Sterols like cholesterol are found predominantly in eukaryotes but not in most prokaryotes.

Review Questions

• What role does cholesterol play in the structure of eukaryotic cell membranes?
• How can antimicrobial drugs targeting cholesterol synthesis affect microbial cells?
• Why is cholesterol important for hormone production?

Related terms

Lipid: A broad group of naturally occurring molecules that include fats, waxes, sterols (like cholesterol), fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, phospholipids, and others.

Sterol: A subgroup of steroids with a hydroxyl group at the C3 position; includes important compounds like cholesterol.

Antimicrobial Drug: Substances used to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms; they can target various microbial structures or metabolic pathways.