7-Dehydrositosterol

7-Dehydrositosterol

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

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

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

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

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

• Sterol
• Phytosterol
• Sitosterol
• Cholesterol

Gallery

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

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  7-Dehydrositosterol
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  7-Dehydrositosterol