Question

metabolic syndrome is a collection of conditions — including high blood pressure and high blood sugar — that together increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and diabetes. one of the characteristic cellular changes observed in people with metabolic syndrome is an increase in cholesterol in their cell membranes. how would this increase in cholesterol affect the function of cell membranes in affected individuals? assume typical body temperature. select all that apply.
membrane permeability will increase so that molecules can now move in and out of the cells more easily.
membrane fluidity will increase, causing the cell membranes to become floppy and unstable.
membrane fluidity will decrease, causing the cell membranes to become stiff and inflexible.
membrane permeability will decrease so that movement of molecules through the cell membrane is reduced.
the functions of many cell types will be impaired, causing disruptions in the persons overall physiology.

Explanation:

Cholesterol in cell membranes at typical body temperature (around 37°C) has a moderating effect on membrane fluidity. When cholesterol levels increase:

• Membrane fluidity: Cholesterol reduces the movement of phospholipid fatty - acid tails. So, membrane fluidity decreases (not increases), making the membrane stiffer and less flexible.
• Membrane permeability: A more rigid membrane (due to decreased fluidity from increased cholesterol) generally has lower permeability. Molecules have a harder time passing through a less - fluid membrane.
• Overall physiology: Since cell membranes are crucial for many cellular functions (such as transport, cell - cell communication), impaired membrane function (due to increased cholesterol) can disrupt the functions of many cell types, which in turn can cause disruptions in the person's overall physiology.

Answer:

• Membrane fluidity will decrease, causing the cell membranes to become stiff and inflexible.
• Membrane permeability will decrease so that movement of molecules through the cell membrane is reduced.
• The functions of many cell types will be impaired, causing disruptions in the person's overall physiology.