Triglyceride

Definition

A triglyceride is a type of lipid molecule composed of one glycerol molecule bound to three fatty acid chains. They are the primary form of stored energy in many organisms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Triglycerides are formed through a dehydration synthesis reaction involving glycerol and three fatty acids.
2. They are the most common type of fat found in both animals and plants.
3. In microbial cells, triglycerides can serve as an energy reserve that can be metabolized when needed.
4. Triglycerides are hydrophobic and insoluble in water, necessitating special mechanisms for transport in biological systems.
5. High levels of triglycerides in humans can be associated with metabolic disorders such as obesity and cardiovascular disease.

Review Questions

Related terms

Glycerol:

A simple polyol compound that forms the backbone of triglyceride molecules.

Fatty Acids:

Long hydrocarbon chains that are components of lipids including triglycerides.

Lipid Metabolism: The process by which lipids are synthesized and degraded in living organisms.