Triacylglycerol

Serves as the primary form of energy storage in animals and plants, composed of a glycerol molecule esterified with three fatty acid chains.

Key Functions:

• Efficiently stores metabolic energy.
• Provides insulation and organ protection.
• Source of metabolic water upon oxidation.

Interacting Systems & Components:

• Free Fatty Acid (components of)
• Glycerol (backbone)
• Adipose Tissue (primary storage site)
• Chylomicrons (transport form of dietary TGs)
• Very Low-Density Lipoprotein (transport form of endogenous TGs)
• Lipases (hydrolyze TGs)