What is the Origin of Lipophilic?

The term is derived from the Greek words lipos (fat) and philos (loving), creating the literal meaning "fat-loving." This chemical descriptor became essential in the early 20th century with the rise of organic chemistry and the understanding of biological membranes. In biology, it helps explain the passive diffusion of certain molecules across cellular barriers.

What is the Mechanism of Lipophilic?

The mechanism of action for lipophilic substances relies on the lipid-soluble nature of the cell membrane, which acts as a selective barrier. Because these molecules are non-polar, they can dissolve directly into the hydrophobic core of the plasma membrane, enabling passive diffusion into the cell without the need for a specific membrane transporter. This mechanism allows steroid hormones to reach their intracellular receptors, where they can modulate gene transcription and exert their systemic effects.

Lipophilic

Meaning

Lipophilic is a chemical property describing a substance’s affinity for, and ability to dissolve in, fats, lipids, and non-polar solvents. This characteristic is fundamentally important in human physiology, particularly for pharmacokinetics and endocrinology. Highly lipophilic molecules, such as steroid hormones like testosterone and estrogen, can readily traverse the lipid bilayer of cell membranes.

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Your Skin Is the Ultimate Delivery System

Your skin is the command center for controlled substance delivery, optimizing bioavailability beyond oral limits.

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Lipophilic

Meaning

Origin

Mechanism

Your Skin Is the Ultimate Delivery System

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Persistent Organic Pollutants on Endocrine Function?

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