Chemistry of Lipids and Sphingolipids

A genetic disorder causing the build-up of a harmful substance in the brain.

A genetic disorder causing the build-up of a harmful lipid.

A rare genetic disorder affecting the myelin sheath of the nerves.

A genetic disorder affecting blood vessels and nerves, resulting from the build-up of a certain type of lipid.

A group of genetic disorders characterized by the accumulation of sphingolipids in cells.

A fatty acid with a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached. This gives the fatty acid some specific chemical properties.

Fatty acids that must be obtained from the diet because the body cannot produce them.

A chemical test performed on fats to detect the presence of unsaturated fatty acids.

A type of lipid (fat) important for myelin sheath formation.

A deficiency in an enzyme responsible for breaking down sulfatide.

The central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord.

The chemical processes involved in forming and breaking down lipids.

Conditions affecting the body's nervous system.

The loss or damage of myelin surrounding nerve fibers.

A disorder caused by defects in genes.

Progressive deterioration of neurological functions like movement and speech.

Fats and oils.

Lipids are a diverse group of organic compounds that are insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. They are essential for various biological functions.

Lipids are classified into different types based on their structure and function. These include simple lipids like fats and waxes, complex lipids like phospholipids and glycolipids, and derived lipids like cholesterol.

Phospholipids are complex lipids composed of a glycerol backbone, two fatty acid chains, and a phosphate group. The phosphate group is linked to a hydrophilic head, making the molecule amphipathic.

Phospholipids are crucial components of cell membranes, forming a bilayer structure. They act as structural units and regulate membrane permeability.

Cholesterol is a steroid lipid with a rigid, four-ring structure. It is categorized as a derived lipid.

Cholesterol is a key component of cell membranes, providing structural integrity and regulating membrane fluidity. It is also a precursor for steroid hormone synthesis.

Micelles are spherical structures formed when amphipathic lipids are dispersed in water. They have hydrophobic tails pointing inward and hydrophilic heads facing outward.

Liposomes are spherical vesicles formed by sonicating amphipathic lipids in an aqueous medium. They consist of a lipid bilayer enclosing an aqueous compartment.