Does Fat Play a Structural Role in Our Body?

Our cell membranes contain molecules, called phospholipids, that seem to have structural similarities to triglycerides (see Figure 5.1). Like triglycerides, phospholipids contain a glycerol backbone to which fatty acids are attached. However, phospholipids contain only two fatty acids, not three as in triglycerides. The third fatty acid is replaced by phosphate combined with another molecule, such as choline, serine or inostiol. This helps make the phospholipids special and appropriate to be part of the

membrane.

Phospholipids provide the basis for the water-insoluble properties of our cell membranes. In turn, then, the barrier-like properties of membranes allow each cell to regulate the movement of water-soluble substances into and out of cells and their internal organelles. In addition, the attached fatty acids can be removed and used to make other molecules that help regulate bodily function.