Question

Many types of cells have stores of lipids in their cytoplasm, usually seen as fat droplets. What is the lipid most commonly found in these droplets?

A) cholesterol
B) palmitic acid
C) Isoprene
D) triacylglycerol

Answer 1

Triacylglycerol is the lipid most commonly found in cytoplasmic fat droplets, especially within adipocytes, serving as the main form of energy storage (option D).

Step-by-step explanation:

The lipid most commonly found in fat droplets within the cytoplasm of cells, particularly in adipocytes, is triacylglycerol (also known as triglycerides). These molecules are comprised of a glycerol backbone linked to three fatty acid chains. Adipocytes, which include both white and brown types, store lipids in different ways based on their function in the body. White fat adipocytes tend to store lipids as a single large droplet, making them more efficient at storing fats, while brown fat adipocytes contain many small droplets and have higher metabolic activity. Triacylglycerols are the primary form of stored energy in adipocytes and are utilized by cells for energy through a process called B-oxidation.

Hence, the answer is option D.