7-Dehydrositosterol

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

7-Dehydrositosterol[edit | edit source]

Structure of 7-Dehydrositosterol
Ball-and-stick model of 7-Dehydrositosterol

7-Dehydrositosterol is a sterol compound that is structurally related to sitosterol. It is a member of the phytosterol family, which are sterols derived from plants. 7-Dehydrositosterol is notable for its role as a precursor in the biosynthesis of other important sterols and its presence in various plant species.

Structure[edit | edit source]

7-Dehydrositosterol is characterized by its complex steroid structure, which includes a four-ring core typical of sterols. The molecule contains a double bond at the 7th position, distinguishing it from other sterols such as cholesterol and sitosterol. This structural feature is crucial for its biological function and its conversion into other sterols.

Biosynthesis[edit | edit source]

In plants, 7-Dehydrositosterol is synthesized through the mevalonate pathway, a crucial metabolic pathway that produces isoprenoids. The biosynthesis involves multiple enzymatic steps, starting from simple precursors like acetyl-CoA. The presence of the double bond at the 7th position is introduced during the later stages of this pathway.

Biological Role[edit | edit source]

7-Dehydrositosterol serves as a precursor for the synthesis of other sterols, including vitamin D analogs in some organisms. Its role in the plant kingdom is primarily structural, contributing to the stability and functionality of cell membranes. Additionally, it may play a role in plant growth and development.

Applications[edit | edit source]

While 7-Dehydrositosterol itself is not widely used in industry, its derivatives and related compounds have applications in nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. The study of phytosterols, including 7-Dehydrositosterol, is of interest for their potential health benefits, such as lowering cholesterol levels in humans.

Related pages[edit | edit source]

Gallery[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD