Lipids Overview

Definition of Lipids

• Lipids are macromolecules composed of long hydrocarbon chains made of hydrogen and carbon.
• Associated with fats, but also include:
  • Waxes
  • Oils
  • Steroids
  • Phospholipids

Properties of Lipids

• Nonpolar nature makes them insoluble in water.
  • Example: Oil separates from water.

Fatty Acids

• Key components of various lipids.
• Types of fatty acids include:
  • Saturated fats
  • Unsaturated fats
  • Trans fats
  • Omega fatty acids
• Fatty acids combine with glycerol to form:
  • Triglycerides (Triglycerol)
    • Function: Energy storage (as fat/adipose).

Phospholipids

• Structure:
  • Composed of two nonpolar fatty acid tails and a polar phosphoglycerol head.
• Function:
  • Forms the phospholipid bilayer, protecting the cell from external threats.

Steroids

• Hydrophobic and water-insoluble, different from fatty acid containing lipids.
• Structure:
  • Consist of four cyclic rings linked together.
• Examples include:
  • Cholesterol
  • Cortisol
• Functions:
  • Hormonal steroids like progesterone and testosterone are derived from cholesterol.

Waxes

• Unique structures found in:
  • Feathers of birds
  • Leaf structures of plants.
• Function:
  • Water-repellent properties causing water to bead and run off.

Conclusion

• There is much more to lipids, including soaps and detergents.
• For questions or comments, engage below and subscribe for more content.