Cholesterol is the most common sterol in animal tissues, functioning to strengthen eukaryotic cell membranes and those of bacteria lacking cell walls (such as Mycoplasma). Structurally, it consists of four fused rings—comprising three hexagons and one pentagon attached along their edges—with a double bond in one ring, a hydroxyl group at the sterol-defining position, and a carbon chain branching from the pentagon.

Cholesterol

Sterols are a class of steroids characterized by the presence of a hydroxyl (OH) group. These molecules are predominantly hydrophobic but contain a hydrophilic hydroxyl group, giving them amphipathic properties.

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Steroids are complex, ring-structured lipids found in cell membranes, with some members functioning as chemical messengers or hormones.

Steroid

https://openstax.org/details/books/microbiology/

Microbiology covers the scope and sequence requirements for a single-semester microbiology course for non-majors. The book presents the core concepts of microbiology with a focus on applications for careers in allied health. The pedagogical features of the text make the material interesting and accessible while maintaining the career-application focus and scientific rigor inherent in the subject matter. Microbiology’s art program enhances students’ understanding of concepts through clear and effective illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

Microbiology is produced through a collaborative publishing agreement between OpenStax and the American Society for Microbiology Press. The book aligns with the curriculum guidelines of the American Society for Microbiology.

OpenStax Microbiology Textbook

Hopanoids are multiringed lipid compounds produced by bacteria that strengthen bacterial membranes, serving a functional role analogous to cholesterol in eukaryotic membranes.

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