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AAT Bioquest

What are the functions of each type of lipid?

Posted July 25, 2024


Answer

Different classes of lipids serve different functions: 

  1. Fatty Acids are the building blocks of other lipids
  2. Waxes provide protection and waterproofing
  3. Phospholipids form a major part of cell membranes
  4. Glycolipids are involved in cell signaling
  5. Steroids include cholesterol, which is a precursor for hormones
  6. 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*