Which of the following is a key intermediate in the synthesis of bile acids from cholesterol?

A 7-Dehydrocholesterol
B 7α-Hydroxycholesterol ✓
C 24,25-Dihydroxycholesterol
D 27-Hydroxycholesterol

Explanation

7α-Hydroxycholesterol is a key intermediate in the synthesis of bile acids from cholesterol, as it is converted to 7α-hydroxycholest-4-en-3-one and eventually to cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid.

Mnemonic

'7' = Seven = 'Start' of bile acid synthesis

Source

Biochemistry of Lipids, Lipoproteins and Membranes
Lipid Metabolism Biochemistry Bile Acid Synthesis Hard MEDICAL Confidence: medium