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Lipids play a crucial role in the body by serving as long-term energy storage, providing protection, and forming structural components. They include various categories such as fatty acids, phospholipids, prostaglandins, waxes, steroids, and terpenes, each with distinct functions and structures. Understanding lipid categories and functions is vital for comprehending their role in overall health.
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General Function • Long-term storage of energy (9 kcal / g) • Protection • Reduce heat loss & water loss • Structural Components • Hormones • Vitamins (A, D, E, and K) • Prostaglandins
sphingolipids • Sphingomyelin (myelin sheath) • Glycolipids (Glycocalyx)
Prostaglandins • Locally acting messenger molecules • Produced in many places throughout the human body • Various Functions including: • Regulating the contraction and relaxation of smooth muscle tissue • Involved in allergic and inflammatory responses • Prevents formation of blood clots • Affects blood pressure, conception, and fertility
Waxes • Esters of long chain fatty acids and long chain alcohols • Protective coatings • Animals – Skin, Fur and Feathers • Plants – leaves and fruits
Steroids-Cholesterol Derivatives Synthetic