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Chemistry of Lipids-1
Dr .Hyba Abass
Ibrahim
, What are Lipids?
Lipids are a class of biological molecules defined by low
solubility in water and high solubility in nonpolar solvents :
• Group of naturally occurring substances
• Consists of higher fatty acids
• Insoluble in water
• Soluble in: Ether, chloroform, benzene and acetone
(organic solvents)
, Biological functions of lipids
Structural role :
• Lipids are major component of cell membranes and subcellular membrane .
• They are important constituents of the nervous system.
• Insulates the body from temperature extremes
• Cushion the vital organs to protect them from shock.
Functional role :
• Lipids are major source of energy in the body .
• One more important function of dietary lipids is that of supplying the
essential fatty acids & fat soluble vitamins .
• Lipids are precursors of some fat soluble vitamins , some hormones
(steroids), lipoproteins (transport lipids)
• Lipids make diet palatable
Chemistry of Lipids-1
Dr .Hyba Abass
Ibrahim
, What are Lipids?
Lipids are a class of biological molecules defined by low
solubility in water and high solubility in nonpolar solvents :
• Group of naturally occurring substances
• Consists of higher fatty acids
• Insoluble in water
• Soluble in: Ether, chloroform, benzene and acetone
(organic solvents)
, Biological functions of lipids
Structural role :
• Lipids are major component of cell membranes and subcellular membrane .
• They are important constituents of the nervous system.
• Insulates the body from temperature extremes
• Cushion the vital organs to protect them from shock.
Functional role :
• Lipids are major source of energy in the body .
• One more important function of dietary lipids is that of supplying the
essential fatty acids & fat soluble vitamins .
• Lipids are precursors of some fat soluble vitamins , some hormones
(steroids), lipoproteins (transport lipids)
• Lipids make diet palatable
