The presence of cholesterol in the plasma membranes of some animals
A) enables the membrane to stay fluid more easily when cell temperature drops.
B) enables the animal to remove hydrogen atoms from saturated phospholipids.
C) enables the animal to add hydrogen atoms to unsaturated phospholipids.
D) makes the membrane less flexible, allowing it to sustain greater pressure from within the cell.
E) makes the animal more susceptible to circulatory disorders.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cholesterol acts as a buffer, preventing fatty acid tails of phospholipids from sticking together and solidifying, thus maintaining the fluidity of the membrane. In cold temperature, the presence of cholesterol can increase the fluidity of the membrane, making it easier for other molecules to move in and out of the cell.

Answer: E
 While cholesterol plays protective roles, high levels of cholesterol in the bloodstream may lead to the deposition of cholesterol in the walls of arteries, forming plaques, which can lead to atherosclerosis and other circulatory disorders.

The Presence of Cholesterol in the Plasma Membranes of Some