Fatty acids play two crucial roles within cells:
1. Energy Source:
Fatty acids are a primary fuel source for cellular processes. They undergo breakdown (beta-oxidation) to generate large amounts of ATP, the cell's main energy currency. This energy powers various cellular functions, from muscle contraction to protein synthesis. As stated in one source, "FAs in the human body serve two primary functions – they are an excellent source of metabolic energy, and they serve as building blocks for many diverse complex lipids."
2. Building Blocks for Lipids:
Fatty acids serve as the fundamental building blocks for various complex lipids. These lipids have diverse roles, including forming cell membranes (phospholipids), storing energy (triglycerides), and acting as signaling molecules (eicosanoids). The reference emphasizes that fatty acids "serve as building blocks for many diverse complex lipids."
