In the context of the lipid bilayer, where is cholesterol typically found within the cell membrane?

• A. Intercalated between phospholipid molecules in the hydrophobic core, with its hydroxyl group near the polar head groups
• B. Exclusively in the aqueous cytosol, functioning only as a soluble carrier for fatty acids
• C. Covalently attached to the extracellular domains of transmembrane proteins as a carbohydrate-like modification
• D. Only on the outer leaflet surface, fully exposed to the extracellular fluid and not embedded in the bilayer

Answer: (A)