In this IBDP Biology blog post, we will be introducing the structure and function of the lipids in our body.
Functions of lipids/fats
Structure – phospholipids are a main component of cell membranes
Hormonal signalling – steroids are involved in hormonal signalling (e.g. estrogen, progesterone, testosterone)
Insulation – fats in animals can serve as heat insulators while sphingolipids in the myelin sheath (of neurons) can serve as electrical insulators
Protection – triglycerides may form a tissue layer around many key internal organs and provide protection against physical injury
Storage of energy – triglycerides can be used as a long-term energy storage source
Similarities between Lipids and Carbohydrates
- Both contain a lot of chemical enerhy and can be used for energy storage
- Both insoluble in water, not easily transported
- Both burn cleaner than proteins (they do not yield nitrogenous wastes)
That is all!
References:
- https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eufic.org%2Fen%2Fwhats-in-food%2Farticle%2F8-facts-on-fats&psig=AOvVaw3PMEUXR1G61OhkALg-53U5&ust=1627659286925000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAsQjRxqFwoTCKDShMvNiPICFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD
- https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=http%3A%2F%2Fib.bioninja.com.au%2Fstandard-level%2Ftopic-2-molecular-biology%2F23-carbohydrates-and-lipids%2Fsugars-versus-lipids.html&psig=AOvVaw0BxbFd9nd6h_ID1Mjr9t7T&ust=1627659411977000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAsQjRxqFwoTCJihgIXOiPICFQAAAAAdAAAAABAK
Drafted by Venetia (Biology)