logo
AAT Bioquest

What molecule is found in the membrane of animal cells but not plant cells?

Posted November 27, 2023


Answer

Cholesterol is a structural component of the cell membranes found in the animal cells but not plant cells. 

Cholesterol has a rigid ring structure, which is responsible for providing cell membranes in animals with critical structural integrity and flexibility. The flexibility enables animal cells to alter their shape. 

While plant cells lack cholesterol, they contain sterols, a related type of compound that serves a similar function as cholesterol. However, the cell wall is more rigid, resulting in plant cells being less flexible. 

Additional resources

Mitochondria and Chloroplasts Shared in Animal and Plant Tissues: Significance of Communication

Plasma Membrane

Cell Navigator® Cell Plasma Membrane Staining Kit *Green Fluorescence*