The gene that is needed to produce sitosterol is also found in other animals, such as corals, mussels, and earthworms.
Animals are able to produce phytosterols, although it was believed that the gene that produces them in them was lost during evolution. The scientists' study was published in the journal Science.
Fatty alcohols such as cholesterol and phytosterol are important for biological processes.
It turned out that the Mediterranean worms Olavius algarvensis contain more phytosterols than cholesterol. Scientists conducted DNA and RNA sequencing of the worm and proved that this marine worm produces sitosterol, and does not absorb it from the external environment.
The production of sitosterol makes the worm cell membrane more permeable. There is speculation that phytosterols can lower cholesterol levels in human blood. It is known that its increase can provoke blockage of blood vessels and cardiovascular diseases.