15.3 - steroids

Cholesterol

Amphipathic molecule because of polar hydroxyl group, key in lipid bilayers.

Cholesterol Esters

more Non-polar, form lipid droplets, not in membranes.

Lipoproteins

Mobile lipid particles in bloodstream, contain triglycerides.

Bile Salts

class of steroids that each have a functional group and a formal charge, aid in fat digestion

Amphipathic

Molecule with both polar and non-polar regions; nature of bile salts

Micelles

Aggregates of bile salts that solubilize fats.

Functional Group

Chemical group that imparts specific properties.

Ionic Interaction

Attraction between charged ions, enhances solubility.

Hormones

Molecules that transmit signals between tissues.

Aldosterone

Hormone regulating water and ion balance.

Cortisol

Hormone managing stress response and metabolism.

Testosterone

Male hormone influencing sex organ development.

Estradiol

Female hormone regulating sex organ formation.

Progesterone

Hormone signaling pregnancy support initiation.

Steroid Hormones

Derived from cholesterol, regulate various body functions.

Triglycerides

Fats stored in lipid droplets, energy source.

Lipid Bilayers

Cell membranes composed of phospholipids and cholesterol.

Biological Modification Reactions

Processes altering cholesterol to form hormones.

two bile salt compounds

cholesterol and cholesterol esters

aldosterone

cortisol

testosterone

estradiol

progesterone