Author: Mrs. Savita Chandrawanshi
Volume: 01
First Online: 2026
Pages: 72-105
DOI: https://doi.org/10.63785/978-81-685195-6-5/02

Abstract

Lipids are a diverse group of biomolecules essential for energy storage, membrane structure, cellular signaling, and physiological regulation. This chapter describes the chemical structure, classification, and biological significance of lipids, including triglycerides, phospholipids, sphingolipids, and cholesterol. It explains the structure, types, nomenclature, and physiological roles of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, highlighting their nutritional and health implications. The chapter further discusses major lipid metabolic pathways such as β-oxidation, ω-oxidation, ketogenesis, and palmitic acid biosynthesis, emphasizing their role in energy production and metabolic homeostasis. In addition, it outlines the importance of lipids in maintaining membrane integrity, hormone synthesis, thermal insulation, protection of internal organs, and cellular communication. A comprehensive understanding of lipid chemistry and metabolism provides the foundation for studying human nutrition, metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and the biochemical basis of health and disease.