Which organ in animals breaks fat to produce cholesterol ?

The liver is the primary organ responsible for the metabolism of fats and the synthesis of cholesterol in animals. While most cells in the body can synthesize cholesterol, the liver accounts for the majority of de-novo cholesterol synthesis [t2]. It produces approximately 80% of the body's required cholesterol, while the remaining 20% is obtained from dietary sources [t7]. The liver secretes bile salts, which are essential for breaking down large fat globules into smaller droplets (emulsification) to facilitate digestion [c1][c2]. These metabolic processes allow the liver to convert fat-derived precursors, specifically Acetyl-CoA, into cholesterol [t2]. This cholesterol is then used to build cell membranes, produce hormones like estrogen and testosterone, and synthesize bile acids necessary for further fat absorption [t3][t6]. Consequently, the liver acts as the central hub for fat breakdown and subsequent cholesterol production.

Sources

1. [1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470561/
2. [2] Science-Class VII . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 9: Life Processes in Animals > Small Intestine > p. 125
3. [3] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 5: Life Processes > Activity 5.3 > p. 86
4. [4] https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/cholesterol