Lipids can serve a diverse range of functions within a cell, including:
- Storage of energy for long-term use (e.g. triglycerides)
- Hormonal roles (e.g. steroids such as oestrogen and testosterone)
- Insulation – both thermal (triglycerides) and electrical (sphingolipids)
- Protection of internal organs (e.g. triglycerides and waxes)
- Structural components of cells (e.g. phospholipids and cholesterol)
Mnemonic: SHIPS
Types of Lipids
- Triglycerides: Function as a long-term energy source in animals (fats) and plants (oils)
- Phospholipids: Structural component of cell membranes
- Steroids: Act as hormones in plants and animals, and is a structural component of animal cell membranes (cholesterol)
- Waxes: Act as a protective layer against water loss in plant leaves and animal skin
- Carotenoids: Light-absorbing accessory pigment in plants (involved in photosynthesis)
- Glycolipids: Complexes of carbohydrate and lipid that function as cell receptor and cell recognition molecules