Triacylglycerols

Triacylglycerols

Triacylglycerols (TAGs), also known as triglycerides, are the primary form of dietary fat and energy storage in animals and plants, consisting of a glycerol backbone esterified with three fatty acyl chains. These neutral lipids dominate adipose tissue and oils, exhibiting vast structural diversity that dictates physical properties and metabolic roles.

Chemical Structure

TAGs feature a glycerol moiety with fatty acids at sn-1, sn-2, and sn-3 positions, yielding regioisomers and stereoisomers when chains differ. Saturated chains (e.g., palmitic C16:0) favor sn-1/sn-3; unsaturated (e.g., oleic C18:1) prefer sn-2, as in human milk where ~70% palmitate occupies sn-2 for optimal digestion. Diversity arises from chain length (C4-C60+), unsaturation degree, and positional specificity.

Physical Properties

Nonpolar and hydrophobic, TAGs are insoluble in water but dissolve in chloroform and hexane, with specific gravity <1 causing flotation. Melting point inversely correlates with unsaturation—saturated TAGs (e.g., tripalmitin ~65°C) solidify easily, while polyunsaturated (e.g., trilinolein <-10°C) remain oils; polymorphism (α, β', β crystals) influences texture in foods.

Biosynthesis and Metabolism

Synthesized via the glycerol-3-phosphate or monoacylglycerol pathways in liver/adipose, TAGs store excess energy in droplets and hydrolyze by lipases to DAGs, MAGs, and fatty acids for β-oxidation. Interesterification rearranges acyl chains, reducing trisaturated (S3) species while boosting monounsaturated (S2U), altering melting profiles for margarines.

Biological Functions

TAGs provide 9 kcal/g energy, insulate organs, and cushion impacts; elevated plasma levels (>150 mg/dL) signal cardiovascular risk via atherosclerosis. In infants, sn-2 palmitate enhances fat absorption; dietary TAG structure modulates postprandial lipemia.

 


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where can I find triacylglycerols products on the Biovalley website?

triacylglycerols products are available in this section and can be sorted by product families or sub-categories, such as Trieicosapentaenoin, Trimyristin, Triarachidin. You can browse the catalogue tree or use the search bar with a product name, catalogue reference, brand or supplier.

What types of products are available in the triacylglycerols category?

The triacylglycerols category brings together various product references, consumables, reagents, kits, instruments or laboratory solutions, depending on the relevant product family. The Tribehenin, Triarachidin, Tricaprin sub-categories allow you to find the products that meet your needs more quickly.

How can I quickly find a triacylglycerols product?

To find a triacylglycerols product, use the search function by name, product code, supplier, brand or sub-category. You can also browse the product families listed on the page to identify an available product code, an alternative or an equivalent product.

Does Biovalley stock several product codes in the triacylglycerols category?

Yes, Biovalley distributes several product references in the triacylglycerols category, sourced from specialist suppliers. Depending on the product family, references may vary in terms of format, packaging, brand, supplier, technical specifications or availability.

Can I request a quote for triacylglycerols products?

Yes, you can request a quote for triacylglycerols products from the product page or by contacting Biovalley (info@biovalley.fr). To help us process your enquiry, please provide, where possible, the product name, catalogue reference, required quantity, the supplier or brand you are looking for, and the country of delivery.

How can I find out if a triacylglycerols product is available to order?

The availability of a triacylglycerols product depends on the product code, supplier, packaging and country of delivery. For up-to-date information, please check the product details page or contact Biovalley with the product code or name of the product you are looking for.

What should I do if I cannot find the triacylglycerols product I am looking for?

If the triacylglycerols product you are looking for does not appear in the catalogue, please contact Biovalley with the available information: product name, reference number, supplier, brand, format or packaging. The team will be able to search for the reference number within its network of suppliers or suggest an available alternative.

Are all triacylglycerols products available under the same terms and conditions?

No. Ordering, delivery, storage and documentation conditions may vary depending on the product type, the supplier and the applicable regulations. Certain product codes may require specific approval, specialised transport, a safety data sheet or additional information prior to ordering.