What is the function of cholesterol in the human body?

Cholesterol plays a critical role in the structural integrity and function of cell membranes. It is a vital component that helps maintain the fluidity and stability of these membranes, which is crucial for the proper functioning of cells. Cholesterol embeds itself within the phospholipid bilayer of cell membranes, influencing their rigidity and permeability. This is essential for various cellular processes, including the movement of substances in and out of cells and the communication between them.

Furthermore, cholesterol is also a precursor for the synthesis of steroid hormones, bile acids, and vitamin D, all of which are crucial for various bodily functions. The ability of cholesterol to help form and stabilize membranes is fundamental to the health of cells, thus marking its importance within the human body.