They are the invisible heroes of our body: Phospholipids play a central role in our cells, are found in many foods and are used specifically in medicine, cosmetics and biotechnology. We explain what's behind them.
What are phospholipids?
Phospholipids are a term used primarily in chemistry and biology. But even without specialist knowledge, everyone has probably come into contact with them at some point – whether through diet, dietary supplements or skin care productsThey belong to the family of lipids (fats) and perform essential functions in our body.
Structure of phospholipids: What makes them special?
Phospholipids have a unique structure that distinguishes them from other fats. They consist of two main components:
- A hydrophilic (“water-loving”) head that comes into contact with water
- Two hydrophobic ("water-repellent") tails that stay away from water
This special combination makes phospholipids “amphiphilic”, i.e. simultaneously water- and fat-soluble. At the molecular level, the head is composed of a phosphate group and an alcohol group, while the long hydrocarbon chains form the two tails.
Where do phospholipids occur?
Although they are chemically complex, we find phospholipids in everyday things – especially in fatty foods such as:
- eggs
- dairy products
- Fish & Meat
But they also play an important role in dietary supplements and medicines.
Why are phospholipids so important for our cells?
Phospholipids as building blocks of the cell membrane
Phospholipids are the basic building block of every cell membrane - and are therefore essential for the structure and function of our cells. Since our body consists mainly of a watery environment, the double layer of phospholipids is ideal:
- The water-loving heads are directed outwards towards the inside and outside of the cell.
- The fat-soluble tails cluster inwards.
This creates a flexible but stable cell membrane that protects the cell and maintains its shape.
protection & barrier function
The phospholipid bilayer serves not only as a simple shell, but also as a selective barrier:
- It separates the cell interior from the environment
- It prevents the penetration of unwanted substances
- At the same time, it enables the targeted exchange of nutrients and signaling molecules
signal transmission & energy storage
Phospholipids are not just membrane building blocks – they also have additional functions:
They serve as precursor molecules for signaling molecules such as inositol trisphosphate and diacylglycerol, which are important for cell communication. And in adipose tissue, phospholipids can even serve as energy stores and be used as energy suppliers when needed.
Where are phospholipids used?
The unique chemical properties of phospholipids make them indispensable in many industries – from food to medicine to cosmetics.
1. Food industry: emulsifiers for perfect consistency
Since phospholipids are both fat- and water-soluble, they are perfect as emulsifiers - substances that mix and stabilize oil and water. Without them, fat would settle in many products.That is why they are used in foods such as Margarine, Chocolate, ice cream or baked goods used to ensure a uniform texture.
2. Medicine & dietary supplements: Improved bioavailability
Phospholipids are not only useful in food – they also improve the absorption of active ingredients in the body. A well-known example is liposomal formulations in which nutrients are surrounded by a phospholipid shell or mixed with phospholipids.
An example is Quercesome, a specially formulated quercetin-C complex from MoleQlar. Thanks to phospholipids, it is 20 times more bioavailable than conventional quercetin powder. Similarly, Berbersome, a berberine formulation with 10 times better absorption capacity. Even with curcumin - the secondary plant substance with the worst bioavailability - the curcusome Formulation with phospholipids that 29-fold bioavailability to reach.
3. Cosmetics: Moisturizers & Carriers
Since phospholipids facilitate the penetration of active ingredients into the skin, they are a popular ingredient in the cosmetics industry. They can be found in:
- skin care products as a moisturizer
- shampoos, lipsticks and anti-aging creams as emulsifiers and carriers
4. Biotechnology & Research: Liposomes & Cell Stability
In science, phospholipids have an important function:
- They are an essential component of liposomes, which are used for targeted drug release.
- They stabilize cells in cell cultures and thus enable optimal cell growth.
5. Cleaning industry: dirt removal through surfactants
Phospholipids are not only useful in food and medicine – they are also found in detergents and cleaning products. There they help to reduce surface tension so that grease and dirt can be dissolved more easily.
The best-known phospholipids – who are the main players?
Not all phospholipids are the same – depending on their structure, they perform different functions in the body. The most important ones include:
phosphatidylcholine – Main component of the cell membrane, supports liver function
phosphatidylethanolamine – Important for nerve membranes & cell communication
phosphatidylinositol – Important component of signal transmission in cells
sphingomyelin – Protects nerve fibers and plays a role in brain development
Phospholipid: Small molecule with big impact
Phospholipids are more than just a chemical term – they are essential for our bodies and everyday life.
- They form the basis of every cell membrane
- They play a role in signal transmission & energy storage
- They improve the bioavailability of active ingredients
- They are widely used in food, cosmetics & medicine
Whether in our cells, in food or in skin care products – phospholipids are everywhere and help make our lives healthier and more efficient.
