TASK 9 SELF-REFLECTION ON LIPIDS

In studying the topic of lipids which taught by Dr. Dayang Salwani, I can describe the various groups of lipids and its function in our daily life. A lipid is a type of organic molecule found in living things and known as biomolecules that are soluble in organic solvents. It is oily or waxy. Fats are made from lipid molecules. The primary role of lipids in our body is to provide energy for muscles and body processes. Fat is energy dense, containing 9 calories per gram, whereas protein and carbohydrate contain only 4 calories per gram. About half of the fuel of our body needs when at rest or during everyday activity comes from lipids. If we consume more calories than we need in a day, the excess energy is stored as lipids in adipose cells. In addition, lipids perform biological function as it controls the intra and intercellular signalling molecules. Moreover, lipids in our body are essential for proper digestion and absorption of food and nutrients. Bile acids produced from lipids in our liver allow fat and water to mix in our intestines and aid in the breakdown and absorption of food. Lipids are then needed to transport the fat-soluble vitamins, A, D, E and K, from our intestines to our blood stream. Our cells use these vitamins to maintain the health of our vision, skin, bones, teeth and blood.

                 Lipids are classified into several groups which are fatty acids, triacylglycerol, glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids and isoprenoids. Fatty acids serve as energy for the muscles, heart, and other organs as building blocks for cell membranes and as energy storage for the body. Fatty acids that are not used up as energy are converted into triacylglycerol. A triacylglycerol is a molecule formed by attaching three fatty acids onto a glycerol compound that serves as a backbone which can vary in length and hydrogen saturation. It is vital for energy establishment and important for regulating temperature. The triacylglycerol that we consume can be found in the adipocyte cells in our adipose tissue, where our body stores fat. Saturated fatty acids contain single bonds only. Fats containing saturated fatty acids are called saturated fats, for instance lard, butter, whole milk, cream, eggs, red meat, chocolate, and solid shortenings. An excess intake of saturated fat can raise blood cholesterol and increase the risk of developing coronary heart disease.

           In addition, the third group is glycerophospholipids which are the major lipid component in cellular membranes of all living organisms and the formation organelles membranes within cell which are responsible for the membrane being a bilayer. Glycerophospholipids also known as phospholipids, are key molecules that contribute to the structural definition of cells and that participate in the regulation of many cellular processes. Phospholipid metabolism is a major activity that cells engage in throughout their growth (Coppens & Tomavo, 2014). The properties of phosphoglyceride are play the crucial part in the structure of membranes, with a specific role in balancing and maintaining the structure of some proteins, enabling them a transporting or enzymatic function in or at the membrane. While sphingolipids are commonly functions in assuring the cell surface against harmful environmental factors by constructing a mechanically stable and chemically resistant outer leaflet of the plasma membrane lipid bilayer. Last group which is isoprenoids that function from pigments and fragrances to vitamins and precursors of sex hormones, for instances, steroids, lipid vitamins and terpenes. Other commercially valuable isoprenoids are those used as flavourings, solvents, and raw materials for chemicals.

I create a mind map on the topic of LIPIDS to make it easier for me to refer back in the future.

References:

Coppens, I. & Tomavo, S. (2014). Biochemistry and metabolism of toxoplasma gondii. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/food-science/glycerophospholipid