Question

Which of the following compounds are derived from cholesterol? a. glyceryl tristearate b. cortisone c. testosterone d. estradiol e. bile salts

Short answer

Cortisone, testosterone, estradiol, bile salts

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Role of Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a type of lipid molecule that is crucial in the formation of steroid hormones, bile acids, and vitamin D. Identify compounds that are known derivatives of cholesterol.

Analyze Each Compound

Evaluate if each listed compound is derived from cholesterol: - Glyceryl tristearate is a triglyceride and not related to cholesterol.- Cortisone is a steroid hormone derived from cholesterol.- Testosterone is a steroid hormone also derived from cholesterol.- Estradiol is a form of estrogen derived from cholesterol.- Bile salts are derivatives of cholesterol, involved in digestion.

Compile the List of Derived Compounds

Based on the analysis, the compounds derived from cholesterol are cortisone, testosterone, estradiol, and bile salts.

Key concepts

Steroid Hormones

Steroid hormones are powerful chemical messengers in your body. They are derived from cholesterol and play vital roles in various physiological processes. Examples include cortisone, testosterone, and estradiol.

Steroid hormones can be classified into different groups based on their function:

• Glucocorticoids (e.g., cortisone) which help regulate metabolism and immune response.
• Androgens (e.g., testosterone) which are responsible for the development of male characteristics and reproductive activity.
• Estrogens (e.g., estradiol) that promote the development and maintenance of female characteristics and reproductive functions.

Each type of steroid hormone has a specific structure and function, derived from the basic structure provided by cholesterol, essential for their biosynthesis.

Bile Acids

Bile acids, crucial for digestion, are another set of compounds derived from cholesterol. They are synthesized in the liver and stored in the gallbladder. When you eat, bile acids are released into the small intestine to help digest fats.

Functions of bile acids include:

• Emulsification of fats, breaking them into smaller droplets and making them easier for digestive enzymes to act upon.
• Absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) in the intestines.
• Regulation of cholesterol levels and metabolism.

Bile salts (a form of bile acid) are the actual compounds that facilitate these processes, reflecting the significant role of cholesterol in maintaining digestive health.

Lipid Molecules

Lipid molecules are a broad group of organic compounds that include fats, oils, waxes, and certain vitamins. Cholesterol is a specific type of lipid and serves as a building block for other important molecules.

Cholesterol contributes to the structure and function of cell membranes, maintaining their fluidity and stability. Transformations of cholesterol lead to the formation of:

• Steroid hormones, like those detailed above.
• Bile acids that aid in digestion.
• Vitamin D, essential for bone health and calcium metabolism.

Lipids, including cholesterol, are hydrophobic, meaning they do not dissolve in water. This property is crucial for their functions in the biological membranes and other physiological roles they play.