The formation of HMG-CoA and its reduction to _________ by HMG-CoA reductase represents stage ___ of the cholesterol synthesis pathway. HMG-CoA reductase is regulated in four ways, one of which is _________________________________.

(A) acetoacetyl-CoA, 2, phosphorylation of HMG-CoA reductase

(B) acetoacetyl-CoA, 1, the rate of synthesis of HMG-CoA mRNA

(C) Mevalonate, 2, the rate of HMG-CoA mRNA degradation

(D) Mevalonate, 1, the rate of HMG-CoA degradation