amphipathic

(adjective)

A molecule with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups that allow it to adhere to lipid structures more easily.

Related Terms

Examples of amphipathic in the following topics:

  • Antimicrobial Proteins

    • The amphipathicity (hydrophilic and hydrophobic ends) and positive charge of peptides are their defining structural features.
    • The amino acid composition, amphipathicity, cationic charge, and size allow them to attach to and insert into membrane bilayers to form pores by barrel-stave, carpet, or toroidal-pore mechanisms.

  • Regulation of Blood Cholesterol Levels

    • Phospholipids and cholesterol, being amphipathic, are transported in the surface monolayer of the lipoprotein particle.