Physiological Chemistry of Lipids in Mammals

Phvsiological Chemistry of Lipids in Mamumals by Edward J. Masoro is the first of a series of short monographs designed "not only to introduce the student to the fundamentals of biochemistry but also to show how these biochemical principles apply to various areas of mammalian physiology and pathology." The goal is not attained. The first 179 pages present the chemistry of fatty acids, steroids, glycerides and phospholipids and how they are synthesized and catabolized. This material is up to date and accurate and includes the role of acyl carrier protein in fatty acid synthesis. However, formulae and physical properties rather than mechanisms are stressed. The relation between lipid metabolism and carbohydrate and protein metabolism and energy production is not made clear. The stereospecific numbering system for glycerolcontaining lipids is not employed, though it becomes important in the understanding of enzyme action. Controversial matters are at times discussed without documentation of the opposing theories. An example of this is the discussion of the role of carnitine in fatty acid metabolism. The last 114 pages are more physiologic in their approach. However, there are only infrequent attempts to relate physiology to pathology. The structure and properties of lipoproteins are mentioned, but not the hyperlipidemias. Digestion and absorption of lipids containing long chain fatty acids are well outlined, but there is no attempt to use this knowledge to try to understand the various malabsorption syndromes. The role of medium chain triglycerides in nutrition is not mentioned. The sections on the relation of lipids to atherosclerosis, pulmonary physiology and fatty infiltration of the liver only whet the appetite. The book is at its best in those sections concerned with lipid metabolism during exercise, fasting and cold exposure, areas to which the author has made major contributions. In summary, the book is not sufficiently detailed to replace standard textbooks of biochemistry, nor does it bridge the disciplines of biochemistry, physiology and pathology. It would, however, serve as an excellent introduction to lipid metabolism at a premedical school level. ROBERT SCHEIG