PHOSPHOLIPIDS

A type of large group of organic compounds called

Lipids
Lipids are a group of naturally occurring
molecules that include fats, waxes, sterols, fat-soluble
vitamins (such as vitamins A, D, E, and K),
phospholipids, and others.

STRUCTURE & COMPOSITION

 PHOSPHOLIPID LAYER
- Formed when phospholipids line up and arrange
themselves into two parallel layers.
HYDROPHILIC
- Heads
- Water loving
HYDROPHOBIC
- Fatty acid tails
- Water fearing

Because these cells contain molecules that

simultaneously attract and resist water, they are
considered AMPHIPATIC.
It is both water-soluble and non-water-soluble).

FUNCTIONS
The most important function of phospholipids is to
form the phospholipid bilayer of the plasma
membrane.
Act as building blocks of the biological cell
membranes in virtually all organisms.
These important cellular barriers support all
cognitive function, cardiovascular health, nerve
health, liver function, and digestion.

During the digestive process, phospholipids form

clusters to help move vitamins, nutrients and fatcontaining molecules through the body.
Participate in the transduction of biological signals
across the membrane.
Act as efficient store of energy.
Play an important role in the transport of fat between
gut and liver in mammalian digestion.
An important source of acetylcholine which is the most
commonly occurring neurotransmitter substance
occurring in mammals.