Lipids containing one or more phosphate groups, particularly those derived from either glycerol (phosphoglycerides; glycerophospholipids) or sphingosine (sphingolipids). They are polar lipids that are of great importance for the structure and function of cell membranes and are the most abundant of membrane lipids, although not stored in large amounts in the system.
Glycerol esterified to two molecules of fatty acid, one of which is commonly polyunsaturated. The third hydroxyl group is esterified to phosphate and one of a number of water-soluble compounds, including serine (phosphatidylserine), ethanolamine (phosphatidylethanolamine), choline (phosphatidylcholine, also known as lecithin), and inositol (phosphatidylinositol).
Phosphorylated lipids that are building blocks of cell membranes.
A glyceride with fatty acids and a phosphate-containing group.
A compound with fatty acids, which is one of the main components of membranous tissue.
A fat in which one fatty acid is replaced by phosphorus and a nitrogenous compound.
A family of compounds containing a glycerol or sphingosine backbone plus one or two fatty acids and a phosphate group linked to one of the following; choline, inositol, ethanolamine, or serine.
Any of a class of compounds containing a nitrogenous base, phosphoric acid, and fatty acids. Phospholipids are found in many cells.
A test done on blood to determine a patient’s fat metabolism. Normal values: in serum, 6-12 mg/dL (as lipid phosphorous); levels usually somewhat higher in men; pregnant women’s levels higher than those of men.
A group of fatty substances that constitute an important component of the membranes that surround body cells.
A lipid containing a phosphate group as part of the molecule. Phospholipids are constituents of all tissues and organs, especially the brain. They are synthesized in the liver and small intestine and are involved in many of the body’s metabolic processes. Examples are cephalins, lecithins, plasmalogens, and phosphatidylserine.
A lipid, the molecule of which contains a chemical derivative of phosphorus called phosphate. This type of lipid, which includes cephalins, lecithins and plasmalogens, is found in all tissues and organs, especially the brain.
A diglyceride containing phosphorus, such as lecithin. The lipid portion of cell membranes is primarily phospholipids.
Phospholipids are a distinct type of lipid that differ from triglycerides in that they substitute at least one fatty acid with a compound comprising phosphorus.
Phospholipids are compounds comprising one or more lipids (fats), phosphate, and typically glycerol. They are synthesized in the liver and small intestine. Lecithins serve as instances of phospholipids.
Phospholipids hold significance as integral components of cell membranes and nerve tissues, notably within the brain. Furthermore, the phospholipids present on the surfaces of blood platelets contribute to the process of blood clotting. In a condition known as Hughes’ syndrome, the immune system might generate antibodies against phospholipids, leading to an interruption in the clotting mechanism and resulting in irregular clot formation.