Lipids and cell function - a journey into the world of lipids to understand its function in cell physiology

Abstract

This book approaches biochemical, physiological and therapeutic aspects of some components of the large class of lipids. We begin with a brief history of essential FA and finish presenting the main techniques used in research to analyse the cell content of fat. Lipids are not only the best form of energy storage, cell membrane constituent, or hormones precursors. Lipids and their metabolites participate in intra and intercellular signalling pathways and regulate gene expression. Recent studies on cytotoxicity of FA are discussed. A significant part of the content herein presented is product of the scientific investigation of the own authors. (AU)