Tag: Fungal cell membranes

Ergosterol, a sterol analogous to cholesterol in animals, is an essential component found almost exclusively in the cell membranes of fungi, including yeasts and molds. This unique lipid is crucial for maintaining membrane integrity, fluidity, and proper function, making it an excellent target for antifungal medications. Beyond its biological role in fungi, ergosterol is also significant to humans as a dietary provitamin D2 source.

Over one billion people worldwide are estimated to have a vitamin D deficiency, making the study of its dietary sources more important than ever. This has put a spotlight on fungi and their primary sterol, ergosterol, which is called provitamin D because it can be converted into the essential nutrient vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) through exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.