Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 15, 2026

Milk Collection in the Rat Using Capillary Tubes and Estimation of Milk Fat Content by Creamatocrit
Published on: December 16, 2015
[Milk fat - the only existing for any reason]
Grażyna Cichosz1, Hanna Czeczot2
1Department of Dairy Science and Quality Management, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland.
Abstract:
The milk fat is characterized by an unique composition (over 400 different fatty acids) and stereospecific structure of triglycerides, similar to human milk fat. Almost entirely it is encircled by envelopes made of phosphorolipids and proteins, making the fat stabile oxidatively and resistant for hydrolysis. The envelope of fatty spherule ensures stability of emulsions, as well, as very high extent of dispersion, making milk fat the most easily digested fat in human diet. Phosphorolipids, proteins, peptides and numerous enzymes present inside the envelope are characterized by very high biological activity. All - without any exception - components of milk fat, also saturated fatty acids considered as atherogenic, are extremely biologically active. Lipophylic antioxidants (conjugated linoleic acid, α-tocopherol, vitamin A and β-carotene, coenzyme Q10, vitamin D3 and phospholipids) are efficient in inhibition of processes of lipids peroxidation within cell structures and of plasma lipoproteins. The unique components of milk fat i.e. conjugated linoleic acid and ether lipids (alkyloglyceroles and alkyloglycerophospholipids) possess the broadest spectrum of pro-health activity.
Related Concept Videos
Fats as Energy Storage Molecules
Fats as Energy Storage Molecules
Overview of Fatty Acid Metabolism
Fatty acids are catabolized in a process called beta-oxidation, which takes place in the matrix of the mitochondria and converts their fatty acid chains into two-carbon units of acetyl groups. The acetyl...
The Mammary Glands
Each breast features a pigmented projection known as the nipple, through which milk emerges via closely spaced openings of ducts, referred to as lactiferous ducts. Surrounding the nipple is a circular pigmented area of skin named the areola, which appears rough due to...
Structure of Lipids
Lipids: Dietary Sources and Requirements

