Question

Name this lipid.

Short answer

The given lipid structure is 1-myristoyl-2-palmitoleoyl-3-phosphatidylserine.

Step-by-step solution

Introduction

In the human body, lipids perform a crucial role. It helps to generate hormones while also providing energy. Lipids are divided into three groups: triglycerides, steroids, and phospholipids.

Phosphatidylserine

The phospholipid phosphatidylserine is a kind of phospholipid. The ester connection to glycerol's first and second carbon atoms is linked using two fatty acid chains. A phosphodiester linkage connects the serine group to the glycerol's third carbon atom. Fatty acid tails linked to the phospholipid include myristoyl and palmitoleoyl. Lipid bilayers contain them. Phosphatidylserine is an essential component of cell cycle signaling.

For healthy nerve cell membranes and myelin, phosphatidylserine is necessary. Neurotransmission is impaired due to biochemical changes and structural degeneration as the human brain ages.