The main functions of lipids, their importance for the overall metabolism

Lipids are complex compounds that contain higher fatty acids and esters. They do not dissolve in water, but only in organic solvents. The main functions of fats are structural and regulatory, as well as providing the body with energy.

The structural role of lipids is that they form the basis of cell membranes. Regulatory functions of lipids - ensuring the permeability of membranes and their receptor apparatus, which allows the cells to act on catecholamine, acetylcholine, as well as insulin and cytokines. In addition, fats provide the colloidal state of cell membranes, their fluidity, as well as the activity of individual enzymes, for example, cytochrome oxidase, guanylate cyclase, ATPase. A particular type of lipids (BAS), which include steroid hormones, leukotrienes and platelet activating factor, is able to regulate the work of not only individual cells, but also tissues and organs.

Functions of lipids include their role in providing the body with energy, which is used to reduce muscle, in the work of internal organs, especially the kidneys and liver, as well as in nervous processes.

It is worth noting that the functions of lipids are closely related to their structure. Their correct quantitative and qualitative composition ensures the functioning of cells and their activity. For example, membrane phospholipids can affect protein transporters and ion channels, and changes in their work lead to disruption of the functions of cells and the whole organ.

Fats are vital substances. In addition to the listed functions, they also participate in thermoregulation, since heat conducts poorly. That's why the subcutaneous fat helps the body to keep warm. It must also be said that subcutaneous fat has depreciation properties, so it is able to protect internal organs (for example, the kidneys) from mechanical damage, although its excess can adversely affect their work, which is most often observed in violation of lipid metabolism, for example, with obesity.

Catalytic functions of lipids are associated with fat-soluble vitamins, which are part of many enzymes. Fats are also a source of metabolic moisture, because water forms during the oxidation of these substances. They are also included in the secretion of sebaceous glands, which prevents excessive dryness of the skin.

Given the important biological role of fats, it is necessary that they enter the body in sufficient quantities. A valuable source of these compounds are products of animal origin, fish, nuts, vegetable oil, dairy products and egg yolks.

The exchange of fats in the human body depends on many factors. When one of the metabolic links of these substances is broken, various pathological conditions and diseases develop - obesity, exhaustion, lipodystrophy or lipidosis. In the pathogenesis of their development, mainly disorders of digestion and absorption of fats, a violation of their transmembrane transport, as well as changes in metabolism inside cells, lie.

These pathologies are characterized by specific clinical manifestations, violate the general condition of a person and require timely diagnosis and treatment.