A submicroscopic aggregation of molecules.
The spherical structure formed by the association of a number of amphiphilic molecules dissolved in water. Structurally, the outer surface of the micelle (sphere) is covered with the polar domains (head groups) which are directed towards (stick into) the water while the interior of the micelle contains the nonpolar domains (tails) which selfassociate to create an “oil droplef microenvironment. Micelles may be used to solubilize nonwater (oil) soluble or sparingly water soluble molecules in water. They may be formed by ionic or nonionic surfactants.
A tiny particle formed by the digestion of fat in the small intestine.
Emulsified droplets of partially hydrolysed lipids, small enough to be absorbed across the intestinal mucosa.
Aggregate of molecules in a colloidal solution, such as a detergent.
One of the microscopic particles into which the products of fat digestion (i.e. fatty acids and monoglycerides), present in the gut, are dispersed by the action of bile salts. Fatty material in this finely dispersed form is more easily absorbed by the small intestine.