(trī-glĭs'ĕr-īd )

Any combinations of glycerol with three of five different fatty acids. These substances, triacylglycerols, are also called neutral fats. In the blood, triglycerides are combined with proteins to form lipoproteins. The liver synthesizes lipoproteins to transport fats to other tissues, where they are a source of energy. Fat in adipose tissue is stored energy. SYN: triacylglycerol.

SEE: hyperlipoproteinemia.

medium-chain t.Triglycerides with 8 to 10 carbon atoms. They are absorbed differently from long chain fatty acids, i.e., via the portal vein through the liver rather than as chylomicrons transported via the lymphatics, and therefore, have been used to treat malabsorption.