CHOLESTEROL ESTERS Meaning and
Definition
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Cholesterol esters are molecules formed by attaching a fatty acid to a cholesterol molecule through an ester bond. Cholesterol itself is a waxy, fat-like substance found in the body and is an essential component of cell membranes. It plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including the production of hormones, digestion of fats, and synthesis of vitamin D.
Cholesterol esters are formed as a result of esterification, which is the process of attaching a fatty acid to the hydroxyl group of the cholesterol molecule. This formation occurs mainly in the liver, where cholesterol is converted into cholesterol esters by an enzyme called acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT). These esters serve as a storage form of cholesterol, allowing the body to regulate cholesterol levels effectively.
Cholesterol esters are insoluble in water due to their hydrophobic nature. They are most commonly found in lipoproteins, which are complex particles responsible for transporting cholesterol through the bloodstream. The esterification of cholesterol helps in packaging and transporting cholesterol to various tissues throughout the body.
Although cholesterol esters play a crucial role in cholesterol metabolism, excessive accumulation can lead to health problems. High levels of cholesterol esters have been associated with the development of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the build-up of cholesterol plaques in the arteries, which can obstruct blood flow and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
In summary, cholesterol esters are formed by attaching a fatty acid to a cholesterol molecule through esterification. They serve as a storage form of cholesterol and play a vital role in cholesterol metabolism, although excessive accumulation can have detrimental effects on health.
Common Misspellings for CHOLESTEROL ESTERS
- xholesterol esters
- vholesterol esters
- fholesterol esters
- dholesterol esters
- cgolesterol esters
- cbolesterol esters
- cnolesterol esters
- cjolesterol esters
- cuolesterol esters
- cyolesterol esters
- chilesterol esters
- chklesterol esters
- chllesterol esters
- chplesterol esters
- ch0lesterol esters
- ch9lesterol esters
- chokesterol esters
- chopesterol esters
- chooesterol esters
- cholwsterol esters
Etymology of CHOLESTEROL ESTERS
The word "cholesterol" has a Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek words "cholē" meaning "bile" and "stereos" meaning "solid". The term was first used in the mid-18th century to refer to a solid compound found in gallstones that resembled bile.
The word "ester" has a Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word "aestus" meaning "boiling" or "heat". The term was first introduced in the mid-19th century by German chemist Leopold Gmelin to describe a class of organic compounds formed by the reaction between an alcohol and an acid, often involving the release of water.
Therefore, the term "cholesterol esters" refers to compounds formed from cholesterol and an organic acid, typically through an esterification reaction.
Similar spelling words for CHOLESTEROL ESTERS
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