Why are Human Sex Hormones Considered to Be Lipids

Question

Why are human sex hormones considered to be lipids?
A)They are essential components of cell membranes.
B)They are not soluble in water.
C)They are made of fatty acids.
D)They are hydrophilic compounds.
E)They contribute to atherosclerosis.

Accepted Answer

Human sex hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen, are considered to be lipids because they are not soluble in water, but are soluble in nonpolar solvents such as chloroform or ether. Lipids are a class of biomolecules that includes fats, oils, and steroids, and are characterized by their hydrophobic nature. While they are not essential components of cell membranes, they can affect membrane fluidity and permeability. They are not made of fatty acids, but instead of cholesterol or other steroid structures. They are also not hydrophilic compounds as they do not dissolve readily in water. They do not contribute to atherosclerosis, which is caused by the deposition of cholesterol and other lipids in arterial walls.