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Statins produced by Monascus purpureus lower cholesterol by which specific mechanism?

  • A Increasing hepatic bile acid production specifically to eliminate excess circulating cholesterol
  • B Competitively inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, a key enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis
  • C Blocking intestinal absorption of dietary cholesterol directly from ingested food sources
  • D Enhancing LDL receptor expression mainly within liver cell membranes specifically

Correct answer: B. Competitively inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, a key enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis

Explanation: Statins competitively inhibit HMG-CoA reductase (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase), the rate-limiting enzyme in the mevalonate pathway for cholesterol biosynthesis in the liver.

Concept context

Microorganisms in food, medicine, sewage treatment, biocontrol, and biofertilizers

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