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Phospholipid: meaning, definitions and examples

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phospholipid

 

[ ˌfɒsfəˈlɪpɪd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

biochemistry

Phospholipids are a class of lipids that are a major component of all cell membranes. They consist of two fatty acid tails and a phosphate group attached to a glycerol backbone. This structure allows them to create a bilayer in aqueous environments, which is essential for forming cell membranes and maintaining cellular integrity.

Synonyms

glycerophospholipid, lipid

Examples of usage

  • Phospholipids form the structural basis of cell membranes.
  • The fluidity of a membrane is influenced by the composition of phospholipids.
  • Phospholipids can act as surfactants in various biological processes.

Etymology

The term 'phospholipid' originates from the combination of 'phospho-' and 'lipid'. The prefix 'phospho-' refers to the phosphorus-containing group that is part of the molecule, while 'lipid' derives from the Greek word 'lipos,' meaning fat. Phospholipids were first identified in the early 20th century, with significant advances in understanding their structure occurring throughout the 1930s and 1940s. They were recognized for their critical role in the formation of cellular membranes, which became a major focus in cell biology. Over time, research on phospholipids has expanded, contributing to fields such as biochemistry, medicine, and nanotechnology, particularly in the development of drug delivery systems and understanding cellular processes.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,563, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.