Cholesterol is a type of lipid found in the cell membrane. It is also used to make the sex hormones – testosterone, oestrogen and progesterone.
Cholesterol is synthesised by all cells, although 25% of total production takes place in the liver. A diet high in saturated fats or cholesterol causes an increase in cholesterol levels in the blood.
Transport of Cholesterol
• Lipoproteins are molecules containing a combination of lipid and protein.
• They are found in blood plasma and transport cholesterol from one part of the body to another.
Statins are drugs that reduce blood cholesterol levels by inhibiting the synthesis of cholesterol in liver cells.
