Lipids are complex compounds, which 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 cells. In addition, fats provide a colloidal state of cell membranes, their fluidity, as well as the activity of individual enzymes, such as cytochrome oxidase, guanylate cyclase, ATPase. A separate type of lipids (BAS), which include steroid hormones, leukotrienes and platelet activating factor, is able to regulate the work of not only individual cells, but also tissues and organs.
Functions of lipids include their role in providing the body with energy, which is used for muscle contraction, in the functioning of internal organs, especially the kidneys and liver, and in nervous processes.
It is worth noting that the functionslipids 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 transport 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 are also involved in thermoregulation, since they conduct heat poorly. That is why the subcutaneous fat base helps the body to keep warm.
It should also be said that subcutaneous fat has cushioning properties, so 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 in violation of lipid metabolism, for example, in 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 when these substances are oxidized, water is formed. 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 exchange of fats in the human body depends on many factors. AtViolation of one of the links in the metabolism of these substances develops various pathological conditions and diseases - obesity, malnutrition, lipodystrophy or lipidosis. In the pathogenesis of their development, there are mainly disorders of digestion and absorption of fats, a violation of their transmembrane transfer, as well as changes in metabolism inside cells.
These pathologies are characterized by specific clinical manifestations, violate the general condition of a person and require timely diagnosis and treatment.
