Which steroid molecule serves as the biochemical precursor for the synthesis of bile acids, vitamin D, and steroid hormones in humans?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Cholesterol
Cholesterol (a 27-carbon sterol with a cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene ring system) is the fundamental precursor for cortisol, aldosterone, testosterone, estradiol, progesterone, bile salts (cholic acid), and 7-dehydrocholesterol (vitamin D3 precursor).
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