ergosterol

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Word: Ergosterol

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: Ergosterol is a type of sterol (a kind of fat molecule) found in fungi and some plants. When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, ergosterol can be changed into vitamin D, which is important for our health.

Usage Instructions

• When to Use: You can use the word "ergosterol" when discussing nutrition, health, fungi, or plant biology.
• Example: "Mushrooms are a good source of ergosterol, which helps our bodies produce vitamin D when they are exposed to sunlight."

Advanced Usage

• In scientific discussions, you might hear ergosterol mentioned in the context of its role in cell membranes of fungi or its importance in the study of certain diseases.
• Example: "Researchers are studying ergosterol as a potential target for new antifungal medications."

Word Variants

• Ergosterol's Structure: Ergosterol has a similar structure to cholesterol, which is another type of sterol found in animals.

Different Meanings

• No Alternative Meanings: "Ergosterol" primarily refers to this specific compound in biological contexts.

Synonyms

• Cholecalciferol: While not exactly the same, this is another compound related to vitamin D that you might encounter.
• Vitamin D2: Ergosterol can be converted into this form of vitamin D when exposed to UV light.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• No specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly relate to "ergosterol," but you may encounter phrases about “getting enough vitamin D” or “sunlight exposure” in discussions about health.

Summary

To sum up, ergosterol is a vital compound found in some plants and fungi, important for producing vitamin D when exposed to UV light.

Academic

Noun

1. a plant sterol that is converted into vitamin D by ultraviolet radiation