How are triglycerides metabolized?
Triglycerides cannot pass through cell membranes freely, and LPLs, special enzymes on the walls of blood vessels, must break triglycerides down into free fatty acids and glycerol; fatty acids can then be taken up by cells via fatty acid transporters.
Where does triglyceride metabolism occur?
liver
Triglyceride molecules represent the major form of storage and transport of fatty acids within cells and in the plasma. The liver is the central organ for fatty acid metabolism.
What enzyme metabolizes triglycerides?
The lipolytic enzymes LPL and HL play important roles in the metabolism of lipoproteins and participate in lipoprotein interconversions. LPL was originally recognized to be the key enzyme in the hydrolysis of chylomicrons and triglyceride, but it also turned out to be one determinant of HDL concentration in plasma.
What does the complete metabolism of triacylglycerol yield?
Triacylglycerols are highly concentrated stores of metabolic energy because they are reduced and anhydrous. The yield from the complete oxidation of fatty acids is about 9 kcal g-1 (38 kJ g-1), in contrast with about 4 kcal g-1 (17 kJ g-1) for carbohydrates and proteins.
Are triglycerides stored in the liver?
The liver is the major site for converting excess carbohydrates and proteins into fatty acids and triglyceride, which are then exported and stored in adipose tissue. The liver synthesizes large quantities of cholesterol and phospholipids.
What are 3 functions of triglycerides?
Fat Functions Triglycerides, cholesterol and other essential fatty acids–the scientific term for fats the body can’t make on its own–store energy, insulate us and protect our vital organs. They act as messengers, helping proteins do their jobs.
What are triglycerides composed of?
Triglycerides are lipid compounds composed of a glycerol esterified to 3 fatty acid chains of varying length and composition. These fatty acid chains can be saturated or unsaturated, and the chemical composition of each chain is different.
Why are triglycerides formed?
Triglycerides are fats from the food we eat that are carried in the blood. Most of the fats we eat, including butter, margarines, and oils, are in triglyceride form. Excess calories, alcohol or sugar in the body turn into triglycerides and are stored in fat cells throughout the body.
Are triacylglycerols the same as triglycerides?
Triglycerides (see Fig. 37.3) comprise three fatty acids esterified with a glycerol backbone. ‘Triacylglycerols’ is the correct chemical name but they are more commonly known as ‘triglycerides’ and this term will be used throughout this chapter. Triglycerides are the major dietary fat.