logo
Products
Services
Resources
Selection Guides
About
What is the function of lipid droplets?
Posted December 21, 2023
Cellular ProcessesCellular Structures and Organelleslipidlipid droplet
Answer
Energy homeostasis is the primary and most well-established function of lipid droplets. For many it was thought to be their only function. However, recent studies indicate that lipid droplets may have several other functions in cellular physiology including: 
  • Storage of signaling precursors, vitamins and other hydrophobic molecules
  • Management of endoplasmic reticulum
  • Mitigating the harmful effects of oxidative stress
  • Playing a role in maturation, storage and turnover of proteins
Other potential functions of lipid droplets may be related to their intracellular motility and in some cases to their presence in the nucleus.  
Additional resources
Dynamics and functions of lipid dropletsCell Navigator® Fluorimetric Lipid Droplet Assay Kit *Red Fluorescence*

Where are lipid droplets formed?What are the properties of fatty acids?Why are lipids important?Where are lipids stored in cells?What are the properties of lipids?