What are the functions of each type of lipid?
Posted July 25, 2024
Answer
Different classes of lipids serve different functions:
- Fatty Acids are the building blocks of other lipids
- Waxes provide protection and waterproofing
- Phospholipids form a major part of cell membranes
- Glycolipids are involved in cell signaling
- Steroids include cholesterol, which is a precursor for hormones
- Eicosanoids serve a wide range of functions from lowering blood pressure and stimulating platelet aggregation to acting as vasoconstrictors and stimulating uterine contraction.
Additional resources
Raman Imaging of Small Biomolecules
Cell Navigator® Fluorimetric Lipid Droplet Assay Kit *Red Fluorescence*