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Intro to Lipids definitions

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  • Lipid

    Hydrocarbon-based biomolecule, hydrophobic and nonpolar, forming a structurally diverse group essential for biological systems.
  • Fatty Acid

    Long hydrocarbon chain with a carboxylic acid at one end, serving as a building block for various lipid types.
  • Steroid

    Lipid subgroup characterized by four fused rings, including molecules like cholesterol, bile acids, and steroid hormones.
  • Cholesterol

    Steroid molecule forming part of cell membranes and serving as a precursor for bile acids and steroid hormones.
  • Bile Acid

    Steroid derivative involved in digestion, aiding in the emulsification and absorption of dietary fats.
  • Steroid Hormone

    Signaling molecule derived from steroids, regulating physiological processes such as metabolism and reproduction.
  • Wax

    Ester formed from fatty acids and alcohols, providing protective coatings in plants and animals.
  • Triacylglycerol

    Molecule consisting of glycerol bonded to three fatty acid chains, serving as a major energy storage form.
  • Glycerophospholipid

    Phospholipid containing glycerol, two fatty acids, a phosphate group, and an amino alcohol, crucial for cell membranes.
  • Sphingomyelin

    Phospholipid with a sphingosine base, fatty acid, phosphate group, and amino alcohol, found in nerve cell membranes.
  • Glycolipid

    Lipid with a sphingosine base, fatty acid, and sugar component, important for cell recognition and signaling.
  • Eicosanoid

    Lipid with a long, unsaturated carbon chain and carboxylic acid end, involved in signaling and inflammation.
  • Cell Membrane

    Biological structure composed partly of lipids, regulating nutrient transport and ion passage in cells.
  • Biosignaling

    Process involving lipid molecules to facilitate communication between biomolecules within living systems.
  • Insulation

    Function of certain lipids to help maintain body temperature by reducing heat loss.