In humans, the fatty acid composition of membrane lipids in skin cells is different from the fatty acid composition of membrane lipids in the internal organs because the internal organs function at a slightly higher temperature. Which difference in fatty acid composition is MOST likely to be observed?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Skin cells, exposed to lower temperatures compared to internal organs, are likely to have a fatty acid composition that maintains membrane fluidity at these cooler temperatures. This involves having a higher proportion of unsaturated fatty acids (like 18:2) relative to saturated fatty acids (like 18:0 and 20:0), as unsaturated fats have kinks that prevent tight packing, thus enhancing fluidity. Both A and C describe changes consistent with maintaining membrane fluidity at lower temperatures: A suggests a decrease in saturated 18:0 relative to monounsaturated 18:1 and an increase in saturated 16:0 relative to 18:0, while C indicates a decrease in very long-chain saturated 20:0 and in 18:0 relative to polyunsaturated 18:2, both of which would increase membrane fluidity.

In Humans, the Fatty Acid Composition of Membrane Lipids in Skin