lipidiapurojen

Lipidiapurojen is a term used in some biochemistry contexts to describe discrete cytoplasmic organelles that store neutral lipids. In this view, lipidiapurojen are membrane-bound cytoplasmic bodies composed primarily of neutral lipids such as triacylglycerols and cholesterol esters, surrounded by a phospholipid monolayer and decorated with surface proteins. They are distinguished from other lipid-rich structures by their internal lipid core and dynamic exchange with cellular lipid metabolism.

Biogenesis and structure are linked to the endoplasmic reticulum. Neutral lipids accumulate between ER membrane leaflets and coalesce into droplets that bud into the cytosol. The surface is coated by proteins from the perilipin family and related factors that regulate access of lipases and remodel lipids as needed. Lipidiapurojen can vary in size from a few hundred nanometers to several micrometers, depending on cellular state and tissue type.

Functions of lipidiapurojen include energy storage, supplying lipids for membrane synthesis during growth, and buffering fatty acids to prevent lipotoxicity. They also participate in signaling pathways under metabolic stress, and can interact with organelles such as mitochondria and lysosomes. Lipid mobilization occurs via lipolysis or lipophagy when cells require energy or lipid precursors.

Occurrence and relevance are widespread in eukaryotes, with adipocytes and hepatocytes as prominent examples in animals, and seed tissues in plants. Dysregulation of lipidiapurojen biology is associated with metabolic diseases such as obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and with cellular responses to nutrient stress in yeast and other models.

Research methods include fluorescence imaging with lipid-specific dyes, electron microscopy, and proteomic analysis of associated proteins. See also lipid droplets, lipolysis, and lipophagy.