In living organisms lipids are mainly used as structural components in [[cell membranes]], as energy stores or as [[signaling molecules]]. Most biological lipids are [[amphiphilic]], i.e. they have a lipophilic hydrocarbon residue and a hydophilic head group, which is why they form [[micelles] or [[membranes]] in polar solvents such as water. The term [[fats|fats]] is often used as a synonym for lipids, but fats are only a subgroup of lipids (namely the group of [[triglycerides]]).
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In living organisms lipids are mainly used as structural components in [[cell membranes]], as energy stores or as [[signaling molecules]]. Most biological lipids are [[amphiphilic]], i.e. they have a lipophilic hydrocarbon residue and a hydophilic head group, which is why they form [[micelles] or [[membranes]] in polar solvents such as water. The term [[Fette/en|fats]] is often used as a synonym for lipids, but fats are only a subgroup of lipids (namely the group of [[Triglyceride/en|triglycerides]]).
Aktuelle Version vom 22. Mai 2019, 00:25 Uhr
In living organisms lipids are mainly used as structural components in cell membranes, as energy stores or as signaling molecules. Most biological lipids are amphiphilic, i.e. they have a lipophilic hydrocarbon residue and a hydophilic head group, which is why they form [[micelles] or membranes in polar solvents such as water. The term fats is often used as a synonym for lipids, but fats are only a subgroup of lipids (namely the group of triglycerides).