Fatty AcidsIn biochemistry, a fatty acid is a carboxylic acid with a long aliphatic chain, which is either saturated or unsaturated. Most naturally occurring fatty acids have an unbranched chain of an even number of carbon atoms, from 4 to 28. Fatty acids are usually not found in organisms in their standalone form, but instead exist as three main classes of esters: triglycerides, phospholipids, and cholesteryl esters. In any of these forms, fatty acids are both important dietary sources of fuel for animals and they are important structural components for cells.
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Index Biochemical concepts Chemistry concepts Reference Matthews, van Holde and Ahern Ch 10 | ||
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Index Biochemical concepts Chemistry concepts Reference Shipman, Wilson and Todd Ch 15 | ||
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