Identify the Role of Cholesterol in the Plasma Membrane

Question

Identify the role of cholesterol in the plasma membrane.
A) enables ions to pass
B) forms enzymes
C) reduces membrane fluidity and permeability
D) anchors the phospholipids
E) provides energy

Accepted Answer

Cholesterol plays a crucial role in modulating the fluidity and permeability of the plasma membrane. It fits between the phospholipid molecules, reducing the mobility of the fatty acid tails, which decreases the fluidity and permeability of the membrane to small, water-soluble molecules.