Lipid Metabolism Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts related to lipid metabolism based on lecture notes.

What are the first steps of glycerophospholipid metabolism?

Two fatty acyl groups are esterified to C-1 (saturated FA) and C-2 (unsaturated FA) of L-glycerol 3-phosphate to form phosphatidic acid.

What activates diacylglycerol during phospholipid synthesis?

Diacylglycerol may be activated with CTP.

What is the rate-limiting step in phosphatidylcholine synthesis?

The formation of CDP-choline catalyzed by CTP-phosphocholine cytidylyltransferase (CCT).

What is the primary function of choline in the body?

Choline is a component of phosphatidylcholine, important for membrane synthesis.

What health issue can excess choline consumption lead to?

Excess choline can lead to heart disease.

What is cardiolipin, and where is it primarily found?

Cardiolipin is a component of the inner mitochondrial membrane, essential for mitochondrial function.

What are sphingolipids, and why are they significant?

Sphingolipids are important components of lipid rafts and play a role in signal transduction.

What role do eicosanoids perform in the body?

Eicosanoids are involved in inflammatory response, pain production, blood pressure regulation, and reproductive functions.

How are thromboxanes synthesized, and what is their function?

Thromboxanes are synthesized from PGH2 and induce constriction of blood vessels and platelet aggregation.

What is the effect of COX inhibitors like aspirin on eicosanoid synthesis?

COX inhibitors block the synthesis of prostaglandins and thromboxanes, reducing inflammation.