Languages:

Lipid

Definition:

An essential structural component of living cells, lipids are a class of oily organic compounds which are insoluble in water but soluble in fats and oils. The lipid class of molecules mainly consists of fats, oils and waxes.

Source: GreenFacts

More:

Important lipids include fatty acids (saturated and unsaturated). They are a component of phospholipids and fats :

  1. phospholipids, main component of biological membranes composed of glycerol phosphate backbone, fatty acid substituents, and hydrophobic headgroups
  2. sterols, cholesterol derived membrane components, (sex) hormones, and bile salts (intestinal detergents).

Source: What is Life Glossary of Scientific Terms 

Related publications:
FacebookTwitterEmail
  • ABC - DEF - GHI - JKL - MNO - PQRS - TUV - WXYZ
  • Themes covered
    Publications A-Z
    Leaflets

    Get involved!

    This summary is free and ad-free, as is all of our content. You can help us remain free and independant as well as to develop new ways to communicate science by becoming a Patron!

    PatreonBECOME A PATRON!