[07] Lipids and Cell Membranes Flashcards
What are lipids?
They are hydrophobic or amphipathic organic molecules.
What are the main types of lipids?
- Fatty acids
- Triglycerides
- Phospholipids
- Steroids
What is a fatty acid?
A carboxylic acid with a long aliphatic chain, which is either saturated or unsaturated.
What is a triglyceride?
An ester derived from glycerol and three fatty acids.
What is a phospholipid?
A lipid containing a phosphate group in its molecule.
What is a steroid?
A type of lipid characterized by a carbon skeleton with four fused rings.
What is the primary function of lipids?
Long-term energy storage and insulation.
Cell Membrane - Definition
A biological membrane that separates the interior of all cells from the outside environment.
What is the primary composition of the cell membrane?
A lipid bilayer made up of phospholipids.
What is the lipid bilayer?
A universal component of all cell membranes, it is composed of two layers of lipids.
What is the role of cholesterol in the cell membrane?
It maintains the fluidity and integrity of the membrane.
What are integral proteins?
Proteins that are permanently attached within the cell membrane.
What are peripheral proteins?
Proteins that are temporarily attached to the lipid bilayer or to integral proteins.
What is the function of proteins in the cell membrane?
They perform various functions including transport, enzymatic activity, and signal transduction.
What is a liposome?
A spherical vesicle composed of one or more phospholipid bilayers.
