Synthesis and properties of

T h e specific structure of glycerides can be of importance in the metabolism of lipids. Examples of this are seen in the specific distribution of fatty acids in animal and vegetable triglycerides (l), in the synthesis of triglycerides by liver and adipose tissue (2, 3), and in the deposition and mobilization of fatty acids in adipose tissue (4,5). In this review we have assembled information on the chemistry of glycerides, which hopefully will assist those investigating the metabolism of these materials. This information is presented under four headings : synthesis, stability, isolation, and analysis. The chemistry of glycerides is obviously too large a subject to be comprehensively treated in a single review, Consequently, we have emphasized those subjects that will be of use primarily to those interested in the metabolism of lipids. Moreover, in order to allow a critical discussion of the various techniques, the selection of subject matter has been influenced by the personal experience of the authors and their associates. Because of these considerations, many worth-while contributions are not included. These can be found in the more comprehensive review articles to which reference is made in each section.