Lipids and Fatty Acids Flashcards
Lipoproteins
Subclasses of chylomicrons, VLDL, IDL, LDL, and HDL, they are a great source of energy for the body.
Triglycerides
High energy source and depot for fat storage
Phospholipids
Component for structure and function of membranes
Cholesterol
Used by the body for normal structure and integrity of cell membranes and precursor to many lipid hormones; aid in solubilization of dietary lipids.
Four Main Lipid Classes
- Fatty Acids
- Triglycerides
- Phospholipids
- Cholesterol
What are two properties of lipids?
(1) Insoluble in water, must be packaged in blood as lipoproteins to be transported
(2) Soluble in organic solvents
Structure of Fatty Acids
Long straight-chain hydrocarbons with terminal carboxyl group. Mainly exist as esters combined with glycerol.
What is the importance of linoleic and linolenic acid?
They are “essential fatty acids” and they are not synthesized by the body. They must be obtained from plant sources.
What does it mean for a fatty acid to be saturated?
No double bonds present in the structure
What does it mean for a fatty acid to be unsaturated?
One or more double bonds present in the structure.
What are two examples of saturated fatty acids?
Palmitate and Stearate
What are two examples of unsaturated fatty acids?
Linoleate and Arachidonate
Structure of Triglycerides
An ester formed from an alcohol glycerol and 3 fatty acids (can be different FAs).
What are plant source triglycerides?
High in polyunsaturated fatty acids (oils; liquid at room temperature).
What are animal source triglycerides?
High in saturated fatty acids (fats; solids at room temperature).
