Glycerophospholipid

Glycerophospholipids (pronounced: gly·ce·ro·phos·pho·lip·ids) are a class of lipids that are a major component of all cell membranes. They can be subdivided into many categories, such as phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine.

Etymology

The term "glycerophospholipid" is derived from the three components that make up these molecules: glycerol, phosphate, and lipids.

Structure

Glycerophospholipids are composed of a glycerol molecule that is linked to a phosphate group and two fatty acid chains. The phosphate group is typically further linked to an organic molecule such as choline or ethanolamine.

Function

Glycerophospholipids play a crucial role in the structure and function of cell membranes. They form a lipid bilayer, which is the framework of the cell membrane. This bilayer is semi-permeable, allowing certain molecules to pass through the cell membrane while blocking others.

Related Terms

Lipid: A broad group of naturally occurring molecules which includes fats, waxes, sterols, fat-soluble vitamins, monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, and phospholipids.
Phospholipid: A class of lipids that are a major component of all cell membranes as they can form lipid bilayers.
Phosphatidylcholine: A class of phospholipids that incorporate choline as a headgroup.
Phosphatidylethanolamine: A class of phospholipids found in biological membranes.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Glycerophospholipid
Wikipedia's article - Glycerophospholipid

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Glycerophospholipid