lipid metabolic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways involving lipids, compounds soluble in an organic solvent but not, or sparingly, in an aqueous solvent. Includes fatty acids; neutral fats, other fatty-acid esters, and soaps; long-chain (fatty) alcohols and waxes; sphingoids and other long-chain bases; glycolipids, phospholipids and sphingolipids; and carotenes, polyprenols, sterols, terpenes and other isoprenoids. [GOC:ma]

Lipid metabolism encompasses a diverse array of biochemical reactions involved in the synthesis, breakdown, and interconversion of lipids. Lipids are a broad class of organic molecules that are insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. They serve crucial roles in various biological processes, including energy storage, structural support, signaling, and insulation. The central components of lipid metabolism include fatty acids, triglycerides, phospholipids, and cholesterol.

**Fatty acid metabolism:** Fatty acids are the building blocks of lipids and undergo a complex series of reactions to be synthesized, broken down, or modified. Fatty acid synthesis occurs in the cytoplasm and involves the sequential addition of two-carbon units to a growing fatty acid chain. Fatty acid breakdown, or beta-oxidation, takes place in the mitochondria and involves the stepwise removal of two-carbon units from the fatty acid chain, generating acetyl-CoA, which can then enter the citric acid cycle for energy production.

**Triglyceride metabolism:** Triglycerides are the primary storage form of energy in animals and plants. They are composed of three fatty acids esterified to glycerol. Triglyceride synthesis involves the esterification of glycerol with fatty acids. Triglyceride breakdown, or lipolysis, involves the hydrolysis of triglycerides into glycerol and fatty acids, releasing energy and providing substrates for other metabolic processes.

**Phospholipid metabolism:** Phospholipids are essential components of cell membranes and play crucial roles in cell signaling and membrane transport. They are composed of a glycerol backbone, two fatty acids, and a phosphate group. Phospholipid synthesis involves the assembly of these components. Phospholipid breakdown involves the hydrolysis of the phosphate group, releasing fatty acids and other components that can be reused or further metabolized.

**Cholesterol metabolism:** Cholesterol is a sterol that is a key component of cell membranes and a precursor to steroid hormones. Cholesterol synthesis occurs in the liver and involves a complex series of enzymatic reactions. Cholesterol breakdown, or catabolism, involves the conversion of cholesterol into bile acids, which aid in fat digestion.

Lipid metabolism is tightly regulated by hormones and enzymes, ensuring that the body has adequate supplies of lipids for energy storage, membrane structure, and other vital functions. Dysregulation of lipid metabolism can contribute to various diseases, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes.'
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Proteins (46)

Compounds (2,108)