Question

Which of the following is a commercial blood cholesterol lowering agent?
A) Cyclosporin A
B) Statin
C) Streptokinase
D) Lipases

Answer 1

Cholesterol is a fat-like, waxy substance which is found in all the cells of the body. Cholesterol is also required to make hormones.

Complete Answer:
Cholesterol is an organic compound which is a fat-like insoluble substance found in all cells of the body. In the human body, the liver is responsible for synthesizing cholesterol.

Cholesterol on the basis of lipoproteins can be divided into two types,
High density lipoproteins (HDL) - This is also known as good cholesterol
Low density lipoproteins - This is also known as bad cholesterol

Option A: Cyclosporin A is used commonly for medical use to prevent graft rejections during organ transplantations. Therefore, this is the incorrect option.
Option B: Statin are a group of drugs which are prescribed for lowering of blood cholesterol levels in the body. Therefore, this is the correct option. It is obtained from a fungi Monascus purpureus. The mechanism by which statin works is, it acts competitively and it inhibits the enzyme which is responsible for synthesis of cholesterol.
Option C: Streptokinase is used medically for breaking down of clots which are found in cases of heart attack or myocardial infarction. Therefore, this is the incorrect option.
Option D: Lipases is an enzyme which is used for hydrolysis of fats in the body and they have a role in digestionTherefore, this is the incorrect option.

Thus, the correct answer is option (B) statin.

Note: A few interesting facts about cholesterol are,
->The optimal levels of LDL cholesterol are 80 mg/dL.
->They are not an essential nutrient but they form an essential part of the cell membrane
->LDL levels are controlled by liver and small intestine
->It has a role in creating hormones, cells and also has an important role in human digestive system