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)