Question

What is the function of phospholipids?

Answer 1

If this is a biology question then phospholipids have functions including forming the lipid bilayer of the cell membrane. Some phospholipids (based on phosphatidyl inositol) act as second messengers (part of the signalling pathway which transduces signals from growth factor receptors).
In terms of food technology, phospholipids act as emulsifiers, allowing fat droplets to form into a colloid - I think this is the function in mayonaise and salad dressings.

Answer 2

1) Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) is a component of lung surfactant. Secreted by granular pneumocytes, it decreases surface tension of fluid layer, reducing pressure required to reinflate alveoli.

2) Phospholipid is also an essential component of bile, where their detergent properties (amphipathic) aid in the solubilzation of cholesterol. Phosphatidylcholine (lecithin) and bile salts are both the major components of bile.



3) Act as building blocks of the biological cell membranes in virtually all organisms

4)Participate in the transduction of biological signals acroos the membrane.

5)Act as efficient store of energy as with triglycerides.

6)Play an important role in the transport of fat between gut and liver in mammalian digestion.

7)An important source of acetylcholine which is the most commonly occuring neurotransmitter substance occuring in mammals.