Pharm Chem 127

Lipids

Guide Questions in Lipids

Yes, sasagutan pa rin ninyo talaga ito. The questions follow the discussion of Lehninger’s Biochemistry (5th
Ed). This is hoping may matutunan pa rin kayo sa lipids.  - Sir Raymond

Oh yes. Wala namang mech. But when I ask for a pathway, do not forget the enzyme!

Part 1. Catabolism of Fatty Acids

1. Where does β-oxidation occur?

2. What are the three stages of the complete oxidation of fatty acids to carbon dioxide and water?
3. Describe the process of absorption of triacylglycerols (TAG) from the diet to the cells.
4. How is TAG stored in perilipins mobilized in a state of low blood glucose?
5. How does glycerol enter glycolysis? Outline the pathway.
6. Describe the carnitine shuttle, the pathway that allows the entrance of fatty acids with 14 carbons and
above.
6a. BONUS FUN QUESTION: In relation to this, how do you think drinks fortified with L-carnitine help in
burning fat?
7. Outline one cycle of oxidation of palmitoyl CoA. How many cycles of β-oxidation are needed to completely
oxidize palmitoyl CoA to acetyl CoA? How many ATPs are ultimately formed?
8. Outline one cycle of oleoyl CoA. How many cycles of β-oxidation are needed to completely oxidize oleoyl
CoA to acetyl CoA?
9. If the fatty acid contains odd number of carbons, ultimately, acetyl CoA and the three carbon propionyl CoA
are formed. How is propionyl CoA further oxidized?
10. Tabulate the differences between α- and ω-oxidation in terms of the pathway and the organelle where it
happens.
11. What are ketone bodies? When are ketone bodies produced?
12. Outline the pathway of formation of ketone bodies (acetone and D-β-hydroxybutyrate) from acetyl CoA.
From β-D-hydroxybutyrate, describe how it is used as a fuel by outlining the pathway.

Part 2: Lipid Biosynthesis

1. Where does the biosynthesis of fatty acids occur?

2. The de novo biosynthesis of fatty acids (in this case, palmitic acid), requires the participation of the 3-carbon
intermediate, malonyl CoA. Outline the pathway of biosynthesis of malonyl CoA.
3. Outline the sequence of events during fatty acid biosynthesis in E. coli starting from when fatty acid
synthase receives the acetyl and malonyl groups. How many cycles are required to synthesize palmitic acid?
4. Describe the synthesis of oleate [18:1Δ9] from palmitate [16:0]. Include enzymes involved.
5. Outline the biosynthesis of prostaglandin H2. Which enzyme in prostaglandin synthesis is inhibited by anti-
inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen?
6. Outline the biosynthesis of phosphatidic acid.
7. Outline the biosynthesis of phosphatidylcholine from choline in mammals. Write the reaction, including the
enzyme involved, in the synthesis of phosphatidylserine from phosphatidylcholine.
8. Describe the four stages of cholesterol biosynthesis. What is the committed step in this pathway?
9. How is cholesterol transported through the blood vessels?
10. List the different fates of cholesterol.