Biochemistry: Phospholipids and Derivatives

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the chemical components, specific types (Lecithin and Cephalin), structural properties, and biological functions of phospholipids.

Phospholipids

Derivatives of phosphatidic acid composed of Nitrogen ($N$) bases, Phosphoric Acid, Glycerols, and Fatty Acids.

Choline

The most common Nitrogen ($N$) base found in phospholipids, having the chemical structure $(CH_2)_2 - N^+(CH_3)_3$.

Serine

An amino acid that serves as one of the Nitrogen ($N$) bases in phospholipid composition.

Inositol

A Nitrogen ($N$) base mentioned in the notes with the chemical formula $C_6H_{12}O_6$.

Ethanol Amine

A Nitrogen ($N$) base characterized as an alcohol and amine.

Glycerol Structure in Phospholipids

A structure where the $C_1$ and $C_2$ carbons are bound to Fatty Acids ($FA$), and the $C_3$ carbon is bound to a phosphate group ($PO_4$).

Lecithin

A type of phospholipid that specifically contains Choline as its nitrogenous base.

Cephalin

A type of phospholipid that specifically contains Ethanol Amine as its nitrogenous base.

Amphipathic

A property of phospholipids indicating they have both a hydrophilic part ($PO_4$) and a hydrophobic part (Fatty Acids).

Biological Functions of Phospholipids

Includes control of membrane permeability, acting as a respiratory surfactant, assisting in the Electron Transport Chain ($ETC$) in mitochondria, and aiding fat absorption in the small intestine as a component of bile and lipoprotein.

Cis Configuration

A configuration in non-polar fatty acids that causes 'bang' (bending) in the molecular chain.