Complex Glycerolipids


These web pages describe the structures, occurrence, basic biochemistry and functions of the complex (polar) glycerolipids, including both the phospholipids and glycosyldiacylglycerols. In all living organisms, glycerophospholipids are key components of the membranes, but they have a variety of other vital functions as cellular messengers, enzyme activators, and so forth. Galactolipids are especially important in plants, where they are major constituents of photosynthetic tissues, for example. Discussion of other complex glycerolipids, including betaine and archaeal lipids, is appropriate here.

These essays are aimed at generalists or those who are new to the subject, especially young scientists - not experts in particular disciplines, but the reading lists at the end of each web page should assist those who require a more specialized knowledge and facilitate access to the primary literature. In addition, the Literature Survey pages contain comprehensive lists of those publications consulted during the writing of this section of the site. These web pages are updated regularly as new information becomes available.



Lipid listings © Author: William W. Christie LipidWeb icon
Contact/credits/disclaimer Updated: February 1st, 2023