Simple Lipids, Sterols, Lipoproteins and Other Miscellaneous Lipid Classes
Here, the individual simple lipid classes are described in addition to a number of lipids that
do not fit neatly into other sections.
Glycerolipids such as the triacylglycerols are the most important lipids of
commerce as well as being essential for the well-being of organisms. In addition
to serving as precursors for complex lipids, 1,2-sn-diacylglycerols
are vital cellular messengers.
Sterols are key membrane constituents, in addition to being the precursors of certain vitamins and hormones. The tocopherols are complex isoprenoids, which function as antioxidants and have vitamin E activity. The plasma lipoproteins carry essential nutrients to peripheral tissues, while the proteolipids have important functions in membranes. Simple amides like anandamide interact with the cannabinoid receptors, while oleamide is the cellular messenger that switches on sleep. Coenzyme A esters are essential for the biosynthesis of virtually all lipids. All have their own unique properties.
Simple Glycerolipids
Sterols and other isoprenoid lipids
Lipoproteins
Miscellaneous simple and complex lipids
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The webpage dealing with ether lipids is also relevant here.
PDF files of each topic are available for download at the end of web-pages. There are shortcuts to a full list of individual lipid classes here.
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Updated: 10/4/2008 |
Scottish Crop Research Institute (and MRS Lipid Analysis Unit), Invergowrie, Dundee (DD2 5DA), Scotland
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