Why Can Cholesterol Act as a "Fluidity Buffer" in Cell

Question

Why can cholesterol act as a "fluidity buffer" in cell membranes?
A) It is slightly amphipathic because of the presence of one hydroxyl group.
B) It is slightly hydrophobic because of the presence of one hydroxyl group.
C) It is slightly hydrophobic because of the presence of one carboxyl group.
D) It is slightly amphipathic because of the presence of one carboxyl group.
E) It is slightly hydrophilic because of the presence of one hydrocarbon group.

Accepted Answer

Cholesterol acts as a fluidity buffer in cell membranes because it is slightly amphipathic due to the presence of one hydroxyl group, which allows it to interact with both the hydrophobic and hydrophilic parts of the membrane.