Genetics, Biochemistry and Physiology of Algae With Increased Synthesis of Lipids.

Lipids are found in all living cells. Polar lipids (mainly phospholipids) are an integral part of all cellular membranes, while storage lipids are present in the form of triacyl glycerols. Triacyl glycerols are found in lipid bodies in the cytosol of cells. Lipid bodies are composed of a core of triacylglycerols surrounded by a thinner layer of esterified sterols and an outer shell of hydrophobic short length proteins. The role of lipid bodies and the involvement of other cellular organelles in storage lipid accumulation is rather poorly defined and will be elucidated.