Lipids are complex compounds that include 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.
The regulatory functions of lipids are to ensure the permeability of membranes and their receptor apparatus, which allows catecholamine, acetylcholine, as well as insulin and cytokines to act on the cells. 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 separate type of lipid (BAS), which can include
steroid hormones, leukotrienes and platelet activation factor, is able to regulate the work of not only individual cells, but also tissues and organs.
The functions of lipids include their role in providing the body with energy, which is used to contract muscles, in the work of internal organs, especially the kidneys and liver, as well as in nervous processes.
It should be noted 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. So, for example, membrane phospholipids are able to influence transporter proteins 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 these functions, they also participate in thermoregulation, since they conduct heat poorly. That is why the subcutaneous fat base helps the body retain heat.
It must also be said that subcutaneous fat has amortization properties, therefore, it is able to protect internal organs (for example, kidneys) from mechanical damage, although its excess can negatively affect their work, which is most often observed with
lipid metabolism disturbance
, for example, with obesity.
The catalytic functions of lipids are associated with fat-soluble vitamins, which are part of many enzymes. Fats are also a source of metabolic moisture, since water is formed during the oxidation of these substances. They are also part of the secretion of the 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 animal products, fish, nuts, vegetable oil, dairy products and egg yolks.
The metabolism of fats in the human body depends on many factors. In violation of one of the links in the metabolism of these substances, various pathological conditions and diseases develop - obesity, exhaustion, lipodystrophy or lipidosis. The pathogenesis of their development mainly involves disorders of the digestion and absorption of fats, a violation of their transmembrane transfer, as well as changes in metabolism within the cells.
These pathologies are characterized by specific clinical manifestations that violate the general condition of a person and require timely diagnosis and treatment.