Lipids

ExamplesFatsOilsWaxesSteroids

FunctionsLong-term energy storageMain component of cell membranesHormonesInsulation/cushioning

StructureLong chains of carbon (and hydrogen)Two primary molecules:

GlycerolFatty Acids

GlycerolA simple 3-carbon

alcohol

Fatty Acids

Saturated vs Unsaturated

Saturated Fatty acidsSaturated fatty acids have the maximum

number of hydrogenKnown as FATSGenerally found in animal sourcesSolids at room temperature

Unsaturated Fatty AcidsHave two or more hydrogen replaced with

double-bondsKnown as OILSGenerally found from plant sourcesLiquid at room temperature

Cis- vs Trans- Fatty acids

Cis- vs Trans- fatty acidsCis-fatty acids have the carbon on the same

side of the double-bondTrans-fatty acids have carbons on different

sides of the double bondCis-fatty acids produce a bend in the

molecule

Cis- vs Trans- Fatty acids

Degrees of Saturation

Polyunsaturated FatsHave more than one double bond

Triglycerides

TriglyceridesOne glycerol + 3 Fatty Acids TriglycerideCan have 3 different fatty acidshydrophobic

PhospholipidsConsist of glycerol, two fatty acids and one

phosphate group

PhospholipidsAre amphiphilicMake up cell membranes

SteroidsConsist of a four-carbon ringBasis for many hormones

Steroid Hormones