Cholesterol maintains the fluidity of the cell membrane and thereby, regulates its function.
Bile acids are derived from cholesterol which serves as their precursor. For example, Taurocholic acid is a polar derivative of cholesterol. Bile acids serve in the absorption of fatty acids, glycerol, and fat-soluble vitamins as these compounds are non-polar in nature.
Vitamin D is produced when the derivative of cholesterol, 7-dehydrocholesterol undergoes photolysis in skin cells in presence of sunlight.
