lipidtároló

Lipidtároló, often translated as lipid droplet or fat droplet, refers to discrete organelles found within the cytoplasm of cells in eukaryotic organisms. These dynamic structures are primarily composed of a neutral lipid core, typically triglycerides and sterol esters, surrounded by a phospholipid monolayer. A variety of proteins are also associated with the lipid droplet surface, playing crucial roles in their formation, metabolism, and interaction with other cellular components.

Lipid droplets serve as the main sites for cellular lipid storage and mobilization. They are involved in energy homeostasis, providing a readily available source of fatty acids for ATP production during periods of fasting or increased demand. Beyond energy storage, these organelles participate in various other cellular processes, including membrane trafficking, protein and lipid homeostasis, and signal transduction. Their functions are highly diverse and can vary depending on the cell type and physiological state.

The formation of lipid droplets, known as lipogenesis, is a complex process that involves the endoplasmic reticulum. Lipid droplets can grow significantly in size, particularly in adipocytes (fat cells), where they can occupy a large portion of the cell volume. Conversely, lipid droplets can also be catabolized, releasing their stored lipids through lipolysis. Dysregulation of lipid droplet formation or metabolism is implicated in a range of metabolic diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver disease. Their study is therefore of significant interest in understanding and treating these conditions.