phospholipid
Meaning of phospholipid: A phospholipid is a fat containing phosphorus that forms the structural framework of nearly every cell membrane in the body.
Definition of phospholipid
A phospholipid is a type of lipid, or fat, distinguished by a phosphorus-containing group attached to its structure. Each phospholipid molecule has two ends with different properties, one that mixes readily with water and one that does not, a dual nature that allows phospholipids to organize themselves into stable layered sheets.
This property makes phospholipids the main structural component of cell membranes throughout the body, where they form a continuous double layer that separates the inside of a cell from its surroundings while allowing selected substances to pass through. The same layered structure also forms the membranes surrounding structures within the cell.
Because phospholipids are so central to membrane structure, they are studied in relation to a wide range of biological processes, and changes in membrane composition or function are examined in connection with several disease processes as well as in the action of certain medications.
Used in a sentence
Laboratory analysis measured the phospholipid content of the cell membrane preparation.
Good to know
Phospholipids form the structural framework of the cell membrane rather than serving primarily as an energy source, distinguishing their role from other fats in the body that are stored and used for fuel.
Word origin
Where “phospholipid” comes from
Formed from phospho-, referring to phosphorus, and lipid, from Greek lipos, meaning fat.