Lipids Structure, Function, and Role in Biological Systems

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary related to the structure, function, and role of lipids in biological systems, including their classifications, mechanisms involved in transport, and information about fat-soluble vitamins.

Lipids

A broad group of naturally occurring molecules, including fats, oils, waxes, sterols, and fat-soluble vitamins.

Amphipathic

Molecules that have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) properties.

Phospholipids

A type of compound lipid made of two fatty acids, a glycerol backbone, and a phosphate group, forming the primary components of cell membranes.

Glycolipids

Compound lipids consisting of fatty acid chains, a glycerol or sphingosine backbone, and a carbohydrate group, important for cell recognition and signaling.

Lipoproteins

Spherical complexes of lipids and proteins that transport lipids through the bloodstream.

Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Vitamins A, D, E, and K that are absorbed with dietary fat and stored in the body's fatty tissue.

Passive Transport

Transport mechanisms that do not require energy to move substances across the membrane, including diffusion and osmosis.

Active Transport

Transport mechanisms that require energy (ATP) to move substances against their concentration gradient.

Fluid-Mosaic Model

A model describing the cell membrane as a dynamic structure with a lipid bilayer and embedded proteins, allowing for flexibility and movement.

Hydrophobic

Substances that repel water and do not dissolve in water.

Hydrophilic

Substances that are attracted to water and can dissolve in water.

Endocytosis

The process through which cells engulf materials into vesicles from the extracellular environment.

Exocytosis

The process where vesicles fuse with the plasma membrane to expel substances out of the cell.

Vitamin A

A fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision and immune function, with sources including liver and orange/yellow vegetables.

Vitamin D

A fat-soluble vitamin that promotes calcium absorption and bone health, with sources including sunlight and fatty fish.

Vitamin E

A fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant, protecting cell membranes from damage.

Vitamin K

A fat-soluble vitamin crucial for blood clotting and bone metabolism, found in leafy green vegetables.