Cholesterol
Cholesterol (CAS: 57-88-5), with the molecular formula C27H46O and a molecular weight of 386.65 g/mol, is a vital sterol crucial in animal cell membranes and as a precursor for various biological compounds. It serves as a key component in scientific research, including the preparation of immune-stimulating complexes and investigations into the effects of cholesterol-rich diets. Its amphipathic nature allows for diverse interactions in biological systems.
- IUPAC
- 3β-Hydroxy-5-cholestene,5-Cholesten-3β-ol,Cholesterolum
- Synonyms
- 5-Cholesten-3β-ol3β-Hydroxy-5-cholesteneCholesterolum

Immunology Research
Cholesterol has been utilised in the preparation of ISCOMs (immune-stimulating complexes) containing ovalbumin to study the induction of strong primary immune responses. This application is critical for understanding vaccine development and adjuvant technologies.
Nutritional Studies
It has been incorporated into animal feed to investigate the physiological effects and impacts of a cholesterol-rich diet. This research aids in understanding lipid metabolism and dietary interventions.
Cell Biology Research
As a fundamental component of eukaryotic cell membranes, cholesterol is indispensable for cell culture applications, supporting membrane fluidity and integrity. Its presence is vital for maintaining cellular functions and studying membrane dynamics.
Biochemical Synthesis
Cholesterol acts as a starting material or intermediate in the synthesis of various steroid-based compounds, including hormones and other biologically active molecules. It is a key building block in synthetic organic chemistry.
| Molecular weight | 386.65 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C27H46O |
| Assay | ≥99.0% (GC) |
| Grade | Ph Eur |
| Boiling point | 360 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 1.067 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Solubility | chloroform: soluble1 gm in 4.5 mldiethyl ether: soluble1 gm in 2.8 mlpyridine: soluble1 gm in 1.5 mlH2O: insolubleacetone: solublealcohol: slightly solublealcohol: very soluble (Hot)benzene: solubledioxane: solubleethyl acetate: solublehexane: solubleoil: solublepetroleum ether: soluble |
| Melting point | 147-149 °C(lit.) |
| Concentration | 10 mg/mL in chloroform |
| Storage temperature | 2-8°C |
| Application | Cholesterol was used for preparing ISCOMS containing ovalbumin (OVA) for studying whether the incorporation of the protein antigen ovalbumin (OVA) in lipophilic immune-stimulating complexes (ISCOMS) induces very strong primary immune responses. It was incorporated in animal feed to study the effect of cholesterol-rich diet.1,2 |
| Suitability | suitable for cell culture |
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P281Use personal protective equipment as required
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Gloves, type N95 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Pharmacopeia | testing & handling conforms to Pharmacopeia |
|---|---|
| Gene Information | human ... POLA1(5422), TOP2A(7153)rat ... Ar(24208), Polb(29240) |
| Sterility | sterile-filtered |
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Cholesterol (CAS: 57-88-5) used for?
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Cholesterol (CAS: 57-88-5) is used in scientific research, including the preparation of immune-stimulating complexes (ISCOMs) and studies on cholesterol-rich diets. It is also fundamental in cell biology research and as a building block in biochemical synthesis.
What are the CAS number and molecular formula for Cholesterol?
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The CAS number for Cholesterol is 57-88-5, and its molecular formula is C27H46O.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply for Cholesterol?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Cholesterol with an assay of ≥99.0% (GC) and a grade of Ph Eur, conforming to pharmacopoeia standards for testing and handling.
How should Cholesterol be handled safely?
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Handle Cholesterol with appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields and gloves. A type N95 (US) or type P1 (EN143) respirator filter is recommended. The product has a WGK rating of 1 in Germany.
How is Cholesterol packed and shipped?
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Cholesterol is supplied sterile-filtered and typically stored at 2-8°C. Specific packaging details for export can be confirmed upon inquiry.
How can I request a sample or quote for Cholesterol?
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To request a sample or a quote for Cholesterol, please contact the Tech Serve Solutions sales team through our website or by phone, providing your specific requirements.
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