diacylphospholipids

Diacylphospholipids are a class of lipids that are major components of biological membranes. They consist of a glycerol backbone esterified to two fatty acid chains and a phosphate group. The phosphate group is further linked to a head group, which can vary and include choline, ethanolamine, serine, or inositol. This amphipathic structure, with a hydrophilic head and hydrophobic tails, drives the formation of lipid bilayers in aqueous environments, the fundamental structure of cell membranes.

The two fatty acid chains can be saturated or unsaturated, and their composition significantly influences the physical properties of the membrane, such as fluidity and permeability. For instance, membranes with a higher proportion of unsaturated fatty acids are generally more fluid. Diacylphospholipids play crucial roles beyond structural integrity; they are involved in cell signaling, membrane trafficking, and protein-lipid interactions. They can also be precursors for other signaling molecules. Variations in diacylphospholipid structure are essential for adapting cell membranes to different physiological conditions and functions.