Steroids, a biologically active organic compound, are derived from ______.

(a) Hormones

(b) Chemicals

(c) Cholesterol

(d) Carbohydrates

The correct answer is (c) Cholesterol.

Steroids are a large class of organic compounds that share a specific four-ring carbon structure. In animals, all steroids, including the well-known steroid hormones, are synthesized from cholesterol.

Cholesterol as the Precursor

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all the cells of the body. It serves as the biochemical precursor for the synthesis of all steroid hormones. The characteristic four-ring nucleus of cholesterol is modified by various enzymes to produce a wide array of steroids that perform different biological functions.

Some important steroids derived from cholesterol include:

• Testosterone: A male sex hormone.
• Estradiol: A female sex hormone.
• Cortisol: A stress hormone.
• Aldosterone: A hormone that regulates salt and water balance.