Cholesterol biosynthesis is a complex metabolic pathway that produces cholesterol from simpler molecules. This process occurs primarily in the liver and involves a series of enzymatic reactions. Cholesterol is crucial for maintaining cell membrane integrity and serving as a precursor for the synthesis of steroid hormones, bile acids, and vitamin D. The pathway starts with acetyl-CoA and proceeds through several intermediates, including mevalonate and squalene, ultimately leading to the formation of cholesterol.
