Identification of Presence of Lipids

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BACKGROUND

Lipids are biological macromolecules which are the primary energy storage molecules. The most fundamental role of lipid molecules is to form the biological compartments i.e. the cell, the cell membrane and cell organelles membrane are composed of lipid molecules.¹ The unique bipolar feature of lipid molecule enables it to create an impassive boundary around the cell. Owing to the importance of the lipid molecules, researchers have identified lipid molecules which are important biomarkers of abnormal physiology. Moreover identification of lipids also serves in testing quality of food products and edible oils. Here we will learn the basic experimental techniques to identify presence of lipid molecules in a supplied sample.

A lipid molecule constitutes of glycerol and fatty acid tails. The fatty acid chain may bear double bonds and also vary in chain length.

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REQUIREMENTS

Samples:       Vegetable oil,

Milk etc.

Apparatus:    Test Tube,

Bunsen Burner,

Test tube holder

Materials:     Acrolein Reagent (KHSO₄)²

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PROCEDURE

Add 0.5 ml of the sample to test tube and add few drops of Acrolein reagent. Gentle shake the tube to form a mixture then heat the test tube.

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CONCLUSION

A pungent smell indicates presence of lipid molecule in the sample

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REFERENCES

1. Vance JE, Vance DE, editors. Biochemistry of lipids, lipoproteins and membranes. Elsevie, 2008.
   
2. Jaya HS, Wardana ING, Hamidi N, Widhiyanuriawan D. Available at: www.ijptonline.com.