Monoglyserider

Monoglyserider is a proposed term in biochemistry for a class of lipid-transport agents intended to facilitate the handling of monoglycerides in the gut and other tissues. In this concept, a monoglyserider binds monoglyceride molecules and assists their movement toward enterocytes, potentially improving lipid absorption under certain conditions.

Etymology: the name blends mono- (single), glyceride (glycerol ester of fatty acid), and rider (facilitator). The term is not widely adopted and remains primarily within theoretical discussions of lipid transport.

Proposed mechanism and structure are hypothetical. Monoglyseriders could be small molecules or complexes that transiently associate with monoglycerides, guiding them to transport pathways or to incorporation into lipoprotein systems, with reversibility and tolerance to intestinal conditions emphasized.

Status and applications: The idea is speculative with limited experimental support and no regulatory approval. If validated, it could influence nutrition strategies for malabsorption or the design of lipid-delivery systems in pharmaceuticals.

Criticism: Some researchers argue that existing models of micelle formation and chylomicron assembly already explain lipid uptake, making a separate carrier unnecessary. Others caution about safety and specificity concerns.

See also: Monoglyceride, lipid absorption, enterocyte, chylomicron.