I.

Introduction to Lipids

 Etymology: The term "lipid" originates from the Greek word "lipos," meaning fat.A

 Defining Property: Solubility: Lipids are a diverse group of organic molecules of biological origin characterized by their solubility properties: 2

o Soluble in Organic Solvents: They readily dissolve in non-polar or less polar organic solvents such as chloroform, methanol,
ethanol, and similar substances.3

o Limited Solubility in Water: They exhibit either sparingly soluble or insoluble behavior in water, with the degree of water solubility
varying depending on the specific lipid's chemical structure.

 Extraction Advantage: This characteristic solubility in organic solvents allows for their facile extraction from biological samples using these solvents. 4
II. Extraction and Separation of Lipids

 Post-Extraction Processing: Following extraction from biological materials, lipids can be further separated and purified into their various types through
a range of chromatography techniques.5

 Chromatographic Methods: The specific technique employed depends on the experimental requirements and the properties of the lipids being
separated. Common methods include:

o Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC): Separates lipids based on their polarity and interaction with a stationary phase on a thin layer.

o Column Chromatography: Separates lipids based on differential affinities for a stationary phase packed in a column.

o Reverse-Phase Chromatography: Separates lipids based on their hydrophobicity using a non-polar stationary phase and a more
polar mobile phase.6

o Other Methods: Additional chromatographic techniques may be utilized based on the specific lipid classes and experimental
objectives.

 Analytical Outcome: These separation methods are crucial for identifying and quantifying the different types of lipids present within a biological
sample.7
III. Examples of Lipids

 Broad Chemical Diversity: Lipids encompass a wide array of compounds beyond just fats and oils. 8

 Key Examples:

o Fats and Oils: Such as butter and olive oil, serving as energy storage molecules and contributing to taste and texture in food. 9

o Fat-Soluble Vitamins: Including vitamins A, D, E, and K, which require lipids for their absorption and play diverse roles in
physiological processes.10

o Steroid Hormones: Like testosterone and estrogen, which are derived from cholesterol (a lipid) and regulate crucial bodily
functions, including metabolism and reproduction.11

o Waxes: Providing protective, waterproof coatings in plants and animals.12

o Phospholipids and Glycolipids: Essential structural components of biological cell membranes, contributing to membrane integrity
and function.13

 Functional Roles Beyond Storage and Structure: Lipids also function as components of membrane proteins (influencing protein structure and
function) and as hormones (mediating a wide range of physiological regulations).
IV. Classification of Lipids

 Three Main Structural Categories: Lipids are primarily classified into three major groups based on their fundamental chemical structures. 14
1. Simple Lipids:

 Definition: Esters formed from fatty acids and alcohols.

 Examples:

 Fats and Oils (Triacylglycerols): Specifically, esters of fatty acids with glycerol (a three-carbon
alcohol).15

 Waxes: Esters of fatty acids with long-chain monohydric alcohols (alcohols with a single
hydroxyl group).16
2. Compound (Complex or Conjugated) Lipids:

 Definition: Lipids that contain additional non-lipid components or functional groups covalently linked to the fatty
acid and alcohol backbone.

 Examples:

 Phospholipids: Contain a phosphate group in addition to fatty acids and glycerol (or
sphingosine).

 Glycolipids: Contain one or more carbohydrate (sugar) molecules attached to a lipid moiety
(often a ceramide).

 Biological Significance: These complex lipids are crucial in the structure of cell membranes, nerve tissues, and in
various cellular signaling pathways.
3. Derived Lipids:

 Definition: Substances produced from the hydrolysis (breakdown by water) of simple and compound lipids.

 Examples: Fatty acids, glycerol, steroids (including cholesterol and steroid hormones), fat-soluble vitamins (A, D,
E, K), and other lipid-like molecules that do not fit neatly into the simple or compound categories but exhibit lipid-
like properties.

 Simplified Classification: While some classifications might include up to five classes, these three main categories provide a robust foundation for
basic understanding.
V. Biological Significance of Lipids
1. Energy Storage:

o High Energy Density: Lipids are a highly energy-dense source, yielding approximately 9 kilocalories per gram upon metabolism.

o Efficiency: This is more than twice the energy content of carbohydrates or proteins (around 4 kcal/g).

o Storage Form: Primarily stored as triglycerides within adipose tissue (fat cells), serving as a long-term energy reserve for the
organism.
2. Structural Role:

o Membrane Components: Lipids, particularly phospholipids and cholesterol, are major structural constituents of all biological cell
membranes.

o Membrane Properties: They contribute significantly to maintaining membrane fluidity, overall shape, and the structural integrity of
cells.
3. Insulation and Protection:

o Thermal Insulation: Layers of fat tissue act as thermal insulators beneath the skin, helping to maintain a stable internal body
temperature, especially in endothermic organisms.

o Organ Protection: Adipose tissue surrounding internal organs provides a cushioning effect, protecting them from physical shock
and mechanical injury.
4. Hormone Production:

o Precursors: Lipids serve as the biosynthetic precursors for many critical hormones.

o Steroid Hormones: Cholesterol, a type of lipid, is the foundation for all steroid hormones, including estrogen, testosterone, and
cortisol.
 o Regulatory Functions: These steroid hormones regulate a wide array of physiological processes, including metabolism,
reproduction, immune function, and stress response.
5. Absorption of Fat-Soluble Vitamins:

o Solubility Dependence: The absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) from the digestive tract is dependent on the
presence of lipids in the diet.

o Utilization Impairment: Without adequate lipid intake and absorption, the body cannot efficiently absorb or utilize these essential
vitamins, potentially leading to deficiencies.
6. Role in Cell Signaling:

o Signaling Molecules: Certain lipids and lipid derivatives act as important signaling molecules within the body.

o Intercellular Communication: They are involved in communication pathways between cells, playing crucial roles in the nervous
system (e.g., lipid-derived neurotransmitters) and the immune system (e.g., eicosanoids).
I. Simple Lipids

 Fats (Triglycerides / Triacylglycerols / Neutral Fats):

o Nomenclature: Also known as triglycerides or neutral fats. Biochemically classified as a distinct group of simple lipids.

o Primary Role: Main storage form of energy within the body.

o Cell Membrane Exclusion: Unlike some other lipids, they do not participate in the structural framework of cell membranes.

o Storage Location: In the body, lipids are stored as triglycerides within adipose tissue.

o Structure: Composed of one glycerol molecule esterified with three fatty acid chains.

o
 Ester Linkage: The three fatty acids are covalently attached to the glycerol backbone via ester linkages.

 Ester Bond Formation: Each of the three hydroxyl (-OH) groups of glycerol reacts with the carboxylic acid (-COOH)
group of a fatty acid through a condensation reaction (dehydration), resulting in the formation of an ester bond.

o Glycerol: A 3-carbon molecule, a triol, possessing three hydroxyl (-OH) functional groups.

o Fatty Acid: A long hydrocarbon chain terminating with a carboxylic acid (-COOH) group. The hydrocarbon chain can vary in length and may
contain double bonds.

o Variability: The three fatty acids attached to a single glycerol molecule can be identical (resulting in a simple triglyceride) or different (resulting
in a mixed triglyceride). These are often denoted as R1, R2, and R3, representing the variable hydrocarbon chains.

o Formation Reaction: Glycerol + 3 Fatty acids → Triglyceride + 3 Water molecules. This condensation reaction forms three ester bonds.

o Neutrality: The resulting triacylglycerol or triglyceride is also termed a neutral fat because it lacks an overall electrical charge.

o Storage and Utilization:

 Storage: Stored in adipose tissue as triacylglycerol, serving as long-term energy reserves.

 Utilization Trigger: The body mobilizes stored fat during periods of fasting, starvation, or prolonged intense exercise,
when readily available carbohydrates are depleted.

 Breakdown Process:
1. Enzymatic hydrolysis within adipose tissue breaks down triacylglycerol.
2. This hydrolysis yields glycerol (which remains within the adipose cell) and free fatty acids (which are
released into the bloodstream).
3. Free fatty acids are non-polar and thus exhibit limited solubility in the polar blood plasma.
4. The protein albumin acts as a carrier, binding to these fatty acids to facilitate their transport through
the bloodstream to the liver.
5. In the liver, fatty acids undergo beta-oxidation, a metabolic process that converts them into acetyl-
CoA.
6. Acetyl-CoA is a central metabolic intermediate, serving as a convergence point for the metabolism of
carbohydrates, fats, and proteins before entering the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) for the generation
of ATP (energy).

o Other Functions:

1. Energy Storage: Fats provide a high energy density of 9 kilocalories per gram, more than double that of carbohydrates or
proteins (4 kcal/g), making them an efficient energy storage mechanism.

2. Thermal Insulation: Subcutaneous fat layers (beneath the skin) contribute to maintaining core body temperature, crucial
for animals in cold environments.

3. Load Bearing and Shock Absorption: Adipose tissue surrounding organs acts as a protective cushion against
mechanical trauma. Fat deposits in areas like thighs, abdomen, and arms also help dissipate mechanical stress during
movement.

4. Female Physiology: Women typically have a higher proportion of body fat due to physiological demands related to
menstruation, pregnancy, and lactation, requiring additional energy reserves and support.

 Waxes (Second Type of Simple Lipids):

o Structure: Esters formed between long-chain fatty acids and long-chain monohydric alcohols (alcohols with a single hydroxyl group), not
glycerol.

o Hydrophobicity and State: Highly hydrophobic and typically solid at room temperature due to their long hydrocarbon chains.

o Occurrence: Found as protective coatings on plant leaves (preventing excessive water loss), animal skin, fur, and feathers (providing
waterproofing and protection), and as a component of earwax in humans (protection of the ear canal).
II. Compound or Complex Lipids (Conjugated Lipids)

 Definition: Similar to simple lipids in having fatty acid esters with alcohols but also contain additional chemical groups, such as phosphate, sugars
(carbohydrates), or nitrogen-containing bases. These extra components increase the structural complexity.

 Types:
1. Phospholipids
2. Glycolipids
3. Lipoproteins
4. Sulfolipids (and others)
o Phospholipids (Detailed):

 Primary Role: The principal structural lipids of cell membranes in all living organisms.

 Structure: Consist of a glycerol backbone esterified with two fatty acid chains (forming the non-polar, hydrophobic tails)
and one phosphate group (forming the polar, hydrophilic head). The phosphate group is often further esterified to a
variable molecule like choline, ethanolamine, or serine.

 Amphipathic Nature: Possess both a polar (hydrophilic) head region that interacts favorably with water and non-polar
(hydrophobic) fatty acid tails that avoid water. This dual nature is crucial for their ability to form biological membranes.

 Membrane Structure Formation: In aqueous environments, phospholipids spontaneously arrange into a bilayer. The
hydrophilic heads orient themselves towards the surrounding water (both the extracellular and intracellular fluids), while
the hydrophobic fatty acid tails face inwards, interacting with each other and excluding water. This bilayer structure forms
the fundamental barrier of the cell membrane, controlling the passage of substances into and out of the cell.
III. Omega Fatty Acids

 Classification: A specific category of unsaturated fatty acids characterized by the position of the first double bond relative to the methyl (CH₃) end of the fatty acid
chain.
  "Omega" Designation: The term "omega" (ω), the last letter of the Greek alphabet, is used to denote the carbon atom farthest from the carboxyl (-COOH) group,
which is the methyl end. The number following "omega" indicates the position of the first double bond from this omega carbon.

 Types:
1. Omega-3 (ω-3): The first double bond is located on the third carbon atom from the omega end. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is a prominent
example.
2. Omega-6 (ω-6): The first double bond is on the sixth carbon atom from the omega end. Linoleic acid (LA) is a key example.
3. Omega-9 (ω-9): The first double bond is on the ninth carbon atom from the omega end. Oleic acid is a common example.

 Essential Fatty Acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6): The human body lacks the enzymatic machinery to introduce double bonds at the ω-3 and ω-6 positions.
Therefore, these fatty acids must be obtained from the diet, making them essential nutrients.

 Sources:
o Omega-3: Found in fatty fish (salmon, tuna), flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts.
o Omega-6: Prevalent in vegetable oils (sunflower, soybean), nuts, and seeds.
o Omega-9: Abundant in olive oil, avocados, and almonds.

 Functions and Significance:

o Play vital roles in brain development and nerve function.
o Contribute to maintaining cardiovascular health.
o Exhibit anti-inflammatory properties.
o Support the proper functioning of the immune system.
o Serve as precursors for the synthesis of hormone-like signaling molecules called prostaglandins.
IV. Lipid Bilayer (Revisited for Detail)

 Definition: A bimolecular layer of lipids, primarily phospholipids, that forms the structural basis of all biological membranes.

 Mechanism of Formation:

o The amphipathic nature of phospholipids drives the formation of the bilayer in aqueous environments.

o The hydrophilic (polar) heads are attracted to and interact with the surrounding water molecules, orienting themselves towards the aqueous
phases (extracellular and intracellular fluids).

o Conversely, the hydrophobic (non-polar) fatty acid tails are repelled by water and interact with each other in the interior of the bilayer, away
from the aqueous environment.

 Barrier Function: This arrangement creates a selectively permeable barrier that separates the internal environment of the cell from the external environment,
regulating the passage of various molecules and ions.
V. Main Types of Lipids in Cells (Reiterated)
1. Phospholipids: The most abundant lipid class in cell membranes, providing the fundamental structural framework.
2. Triacylglycerols (Triglycerides): The primary form of stored energy in animal cells.
VI. Structure of Phospholipids (Detailed Breakdown)

 Core Components:
1. Alcohol Backbone: Typically glycerol (a 3-carbon alcohol).
2. Fatty Acid Chains: Two fatty acid molecules esterified to the first and second carbon atoms of the glycerol backbone. These chains are
hydrophobic.
3. Phosphate Group: A negatively charged phosphate group esterified to the third carbon atom of the glycerol backbone. This group is
hydrophilic.
4. X Group (Head Group): A variable molecule attached to the phosphate group via a phosphodiester bond. This X group is often polar or
charged and significantly influences the properties and function of the phospholipid.

 Possible X Groups: A diverse range of molecules can be linked to the phosphate, including:
o Amino acids (e.g., serine)
o Amines (e.g., choline, ethanolamine)
o Sugars (carbohydrates, in some specialized phospholipids)

 Influence of X Group: The identity of the X group determines the specific type of phospholipid and can affect its role in membrane structure, signaling, and
interactions with other molecules. It also contributes to the overall charge and polarity of the phospholipid head.

 Summary of Components: In addition to the alcohol and fatty acids, phospholipids possess:
o A phosphoric acid residue (the phosphate group).
o A variable X group, which can be a carbohydrate, amino acid, or amine, depending on the specific phospholipid and its function within the
biological system.
VII. Sphingolipids

 Significance: Important constituents of cell membranes, particularly abundant in the nervous system, especially in the myelin sheath of nerve cells.

 Key Structural Difference from Phospholipids: Instead of a glycerol backbone, sphingolipids are built upon a long-chain amino alcohol called sphingosine (or a
related sphinganine).

 Structure:
1. Sphingosine: The long-chain alcohol backbone containing an amino group.
2. Fatty Acid: A fatty acid molecule attached to the sphingosine backbone via an amide bond (formed between the carboxyl group of the fatty
acid and the amino group of sphingosine). The resulting molecule is called a ceramide.
3. X Group: A polar head group attached to the primary hydroxyl group of the sphingosine moiety. This X group can vary:

 In sphingomyelin, the X group is phosphocholine or phosphoethanolamine (similar to phospholipids).

 In glycolipids (discussed later), the X group is a carbohydrate.

 Alcohol Comparison: The fundamental distinction between phospholipids and sphingolipids lies in their alcohol backbones: phospholipids utilize glycerol, while
sphingolipids are based on sphingosine.
VIII. Glycolipids
Definition: Lipids that are covalently linked to carbohydrate molecules (one or more monosaccharide or oligosaccharide units).
Structure:
Sphingosine: Forms the lipid backbone (as in other sphingolipids).
Fatty Acid: Attached to sphingosine via an amide bond, forming a ceramide.
Carbohydrate: One or more carbohydrate molecules are attached to the primary hydroxyl group of the ceramide. The carbohydrate portion extends into the
extracellular environment.
Location and Function: Primarily found in the outer leaflet of nerve cell membranes. They play critical roles in cell recognition (e.g., blood group antigens are glycolipids) and signal
transmission (acting as receptors for certain molecules).
IX. Sulpholipids
Occurrence: A specialized class of lipids predominantly found in the membranes of plants and bacteria.
Structure:
Lipid Backbone: Can be sphingosine or another long-chain alcohol (e.g., glycerol in some bacterial sulpholipids).
Fatty Acid: Attached to the backbone.
Carbohydrate: One or more sugar units are present.
Sulphate Group: A sulphate group (-SO₄²⁻) is attached to one of the sugar residues, making the lipid anionic (negatively charged). The sugar group is thus
sulphonated.
Function: Contribute to the stability of biological membranes and play a role in essential processes like photosynthesis in plants (e.g., sulfoquinovosyl diacylglycerol).
X. Gangliosides
Complexity: The most structurally complex lipids among those discussed. They are a type of glycosphingolipid (a glycolipid with a sphingosine backbone).
Structure:
Sphingosine: Forms the lipid anchor in the membrane.
1. Fatty Acid: Attached to sphingosine, forming a ceramide.
2. Complex Carbohydrate Chain: Branched oligosaccharide chains are attached to the ceramide.
3. Sialic Acids: One or more sialic acid residues are attached to the carbohydrate chain. N-acetylneuraminic acid (NANA) is the most common sialic acid in gangliosides.
Sialic acids are modified monosaccharides with a negatively charged carboxyl group, giving gangliosides their overall negative charge at physiological pH.

 Location and Function: Predominantly found in the plasma membranes of nerve cells, with particularly high concentrations in the brain and nervous system. They are crucial for:
o Cell Recognition: Acting as specific receptors for hormones, toxins, and viruses.
o Signal Transduction: Participating in the transmission of signals across the cell membrane.
o Brain Development: Involved in neuronal differentiation, migration, and synaptogenesis.
XI. Lipoproteins (Detailed Structure)
Definition: Macromolecular complexes consisting of both lipids (cholesterol, triglycerides, phospholipids) and proteins (apolipoproteins).
Primary Function: To solubilize and transport hydrophobic lipids through the aqueous environment of the blood.
General Structure: Possess a roughly spherical structure with:
Outer Shell: Composed of a monolayer of phospholipids (with their polar heads facing outwards towards the aqueous environment) and various apolipoproteins
embedded within or associated with this layer. The polar phosphate heads interact with water, making the lipoprotein particle soluble.
Inner Core: A hydrophobic core containing non-polar lipids, primarily triglycerides and cholesterol esters, which are shielded from the aqueous environment by the
outer shell.
Movement and Distribution: Lipoproteins circulate in the bloodstream, delivering their lipid cargo to various tissues and organs. The specific apolipoproteins on the surface of each
lipoprotein type act as ligands for receptors on target cells, directing the uptake of lipids.
Types (Reiterated with More Detail):
Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL):
Often referred to as "bad cholesterol" due to its role in transporting cholesterol from the liver to peripheral tissues.
Cells take up LDL via specific LDL receptors on their surface.
 Elevated levels of LDL in the blood can lead to the accumulation of cholesterol in the arteries, contributing to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and
increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL):
Known as "good cholesterol" because it participates in reverse cholesterol transport, picking up excess cholesterol from peripheral tissues and
transporting it back to the liver for excretion or conversion to bile acids.
High levels of HDL are generally considered protective against heart disease as they promote cholesterol removal from arteries.
Factors that can increase HDL levels include regular exercise, a diet rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (including omega-3
fatty acids from fish and nuts).
XII. Derived Lipids (Elaborated)
Formation Process: Produced through the breakdown (hydrolysis) of more complex lipid structures, including simple lipids (like triglycerides), complex lipids (like
phospholipids), and conjugated lipids (like lipoproteins). Hydrolysis involves the breaking of chemical bonds by the addition of water.
Role as Precursors: These derived lipids can serve as building blocks or precursors for the synthesis of other lipids needed by the body for various functions.
Functional Significance: Important for generating a diverse array of lipids required for energy storage, the synthesis of hormones (steroids), and the formation of cellular
components.
Cholesterol-Based Hormones and Lipid-Soluble Vitamins (Detailed):
Many steroid hormones (e.g., cortisol, aldosterone, sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone) are synthesized from cholesterol, a derived lipid.
The lipid-soluble vitamins (Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, and Vitamin K) are also derived from lipid precursors or are lipids themselves and are transported
within the body in association with lipids.
Hydrolysis of cholesterol esters and other lipid-containing molecules can release free cholesterol, fatty acids, and other lipid components.
Examples of Released Lipids: Hydrolysis can yield:
Steroids: Cholesterol and its derivatives.
Fatty acids: Released from triglycerides and phospholipids.
Other lipid molecules: Depending on the original complex lipid.
XIII. Fatty Acids (Comprehensive Details)
Chemical Nature: Carboxylic acids (-COOH group) with a long, unbranched hydrocarbon chain (alkyl group) attached. The general formula is CH₃(CH₂)nCOOH, where 'n' is
typically an even number.
Occurrence in Biological Systems: Rarely found in their free (unesterified form) within biological systems. Instead, they are predominantly esterified as components of
various lipids, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, and sphingolipids.
Chain Length Variation: The length of the hydrocarbon chain can vary significantly, influencing the physical and chemical properties of the fatty acid and the lipids
containing it.
Common Range: In plants and animals, fatty acid chain lengths typically range from 14 to 20 carbon atoms.
Prevalence: Fatty acids with 16 (palmitic acid) and 18 (stearic acid) carbon atoms are particularly abundant.
Less Common Lengths: Fatty acids with fewer than 14 carbons or more than 20 carbons are less frequently encountered.
Common Fatty Acids (Specific Examples):
Palmitic Acid (C16:0): A saturated fatty acid with 16 carbon atoms. The "C16:0" notation indicates 16 carbons and 0 double bonds. It is one of the most common fatty acids
in both the plant and animal kingdoms.
Stearic Acid (C18:0): A saturated fatty acid with 18 carbon atoms (C18:0). Also widely distributed in nature.
Fatty Acid Chain Length and Properties: Longer chain fatty acids tend to have higher melting points and are more likely to be solid at room temperature due to increased
van der Waals interactions between the longer hydrocarbon chains.
Classification Based on Saturation: Fatty acids are categorized based on the presence and number of double bonds in their hydrocarbon chains:
Saturated Fatty Acids:
Bond Type: Contain only single bonds between the carbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain.
Hydrogen Saturation: Each carbon atom is bonded to the maximum possible number of hydrogen atoms; hence, they are "saturated" with hydrogen.
Chain Conformation: The absence of double bonds allows saturated fatty acid chains to adopt relatively straight conformations, enabling them to pack closely together.
Physical State: Typically solid at room temperature (e.g., stearic acid).
Example: Stearic acid is an 18-carbon saturated fatty acid with a linear chain.
Unsaturated Fatty Acids:
Bond Type: Contain one or more double bonds between carbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain.
Kinked Structure: The presence of double bonds introduces bends or "kinks" in the fatty acid chain, disrupting their ability to pack tightly.
Physical State: Generally liquid at room temperature due to weaker intermolecular forces arising from the less efficient packing (e.g., oleic acid).
Types Based on Number of Double Bonds:
Monounsaturated Fatty Acids (MUFAs): Possess a single double bond.
Example: Oleic Acid (C18:1 Δ⁹): An 18-carbon fatty acid with one double bond located between the 9th and 10th carbon atoms (indicated by Δ⁹). It is an omega-9 fatty
acid.
Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs): Contain two or more double bonds.
Example 1: Linoleic Acid (C18:2 Δ⁹,¹²): An 18-carbon fatty acid with two double bonds, located between carbons 9 and 10, and between carbons 12 and 13. It is an
omega-6 fatty acid.
Example 2: α-Linolenic Acid (ALA) (C18:3 Δ⁹,¹²,¹⁵): An 18-carbon fatty acid with three double bonds, located between carbons 9 and 10, 12 and 13, and 15 and 16. It is an
omega-3 fatty acid.
I. Lipoproteins: Lipid Transporters

What they are: Macromolecular complexes = lipids (cholesterol, triglycerides, phospholipids) + proteins (apolipoproteins).
Main job: Solubilize and carry hydrophobic lipids in blood (watery).
Structure:
Outer: Phospholipid layer (polar heads out) + apolipoproteins. Makes them soluble.
Inner: Hydrophobic core with triglycerides and cholesterol esters.
How they work: Circulate, deliver lipids to tissues. Apolipoproteins act like keys for cell receptors.
Types:
LDL ("bad"): Transports cholesterol to tissues. High levels = plaque risk.
HDL ("good"): Transports cholesterol away from tissues to the liver. High levels = protective.

II. Derived Lipids: Breakdown Products & Precursors

How they form: From breaking down complex lipids (triglycerides, phospholipids, lipoproteins) via hydrolysis (adding water).
Their role: Building blocks for other needed lipids.
Importance: Create diverse lipids for energy, hormones (steroids), and cell parts.
Key examples:
Cholesterol-based hormones: Cortisol, aldosterone, sex hormones.
Lipid-soluble vitamins: A, D, E, K (transported with lipids).
What's released: Cholesterol, fatty acids, other lipid parts.

III. Fatty Acids: The Building Blocks of Many Lipids

What they are: Carboxylic acids (-COOH) + long hydrocarbon chain. Formula: CH₃(CH₂)nCOOH (n is usually even).
Where they're found: Mostly not free; usually part of triglycerides, phospholipids, etc.
Chain length: Varies (common: 14-20 carbons; C16 & C18 are abundant). Length affects properties.
Saturation: Based on double bonds:
Saturated: Only single bonds. Straight chains, pack tightly, solid at room temp (e.g., stearic acid).
Unsaturated: One or more double bonds. Kinked chains, don't pack well, liquid at room temp (e.g., oleic acid).
MUFAs: One double bond (e.g., oleic acid, omega-9).
PUFAs: Two or more double bonds (e.g., linoleic acid (omega-6), alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3)).