Lipid bodies

Lipid Bodies

Lipid bodies, also known as lipid droplets, are organelles found in both animal cells and plant cells. They are involved in the storage and metabolism of lipids, which are a group of naturally occurring molecules that include fats, waxes, sterols, fat-soluble vitamins, monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, and others.

Structure

Lipid bodies are composed of a core of lipids surrounded by a phospholipid monolayer. This monolayer is different from the bilayer structure found in other organelles, which is one of the unique features of lipid bodies. The size of lipid bodies can vary greatly, ranging from less than 0.1 micrometers to more than 100 micrometers in diameter.

Function

The primary function of lipid bodies is to store lipids, which can be used as a source of energy, as structural components of cell membranes, and as signaling molecules. In addition to storage, lipid bodies are also involved in the metabolism of lipids. They can synthesize and degrade lipids, and they can also transport lipids to other parts of the cell.

Role in Disease

Abnormalities in the number or size of lipid bodies can lead to various diseases. For example, an excessive number of lipid bodies is associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, a deficiency of lipid bodies can lead to lipodystrophy, a condition characterized by the abnormal distribution of fat in the body.

See Also

• Lipid metabolism
• Lipidomics
• Lipid bilayer
• Lipid raft