foszfatiletanolamin

Foszfatidiletanolamin, often abbreviated as PE, is a class of phospholipids found in all living cells. It is a major component of biological membranes, where it plays a crucial role in maintaining membrane structure and fluidity. PE is characterized by a glycerol backbone esterified to two fatty acids and a phosphate group. The phosphate group is further linked to an ethanolamine molecule.

This phospholipid is abundant in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. In the human body, PE is a significant constituent of cell membranes, particularly in the brain and liver. Its presence is vital for various cellular processes, including cell signaling, membrane trafficking, and the proper functioning of many enzymes.

The specific fatty acid composition of PE can vary depending on the cell type and organism, influencing the physical properties of the membrane. For instance, membranes with a higher proportion of unsaturated fatty acids in their PE molecules tend to be more fluid. PE also participates in the synthesis of other important lipids and can be converted into other phospholipids, such as phosphatidylcholine, through enzymatic pathways. Its amphipathic nature, possessing both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions, allows it to self-assemble into lipid bilayers, the fundamental structure of cell membranes.