Fetal nutrition: a review.
Knowledge of fetal nutrient supply has greatly increased in the last decade due to the availability of fetal blood samples obtained under relatively steady-state conditions. These studies, together with studies utilizing stable isotope methodologies, have clarified some aspects of the supply of the major nutrients for the fetus such as glucose, amino acids and fatty acids. At the same time, the relevance of intrauterine growth has been recognized not only for the well-being of the neonate and child, but also for later health in adulthood. The major determinants of fetal nutrient availability are maternal nutrition and metabolism together with placental function and metabolism. The regulation of the rate of intrauterine growth is the result of complex interactions between genetic inheritance, endocrine environment and availability of nutrients to the fetus.
Cetin
Irene
I
Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology L. Mangiagalli, University of Milan, Milan, Italy. irene.cetin@unimi.it
Alvino
Gioia
G
Radaelli
Tatjana
T
Pardi
Giorgio
G
D005227:Fatty Acids / Q000378:metabolism; D005260:Female; D047109:Fetal Development / Q000502:physiology*; D013006:Growth Hormone / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D041943:Infant Formula / Q000737:chemistry*; D020738:Leptin / Q000378:metabolism; D008431:Maternal-Fetal Exchange; D009747:Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; D021041:Placental Circulation / Q000502:physiology; D010926:Placental Hormones / Q000378:metabolism; D011247:Pregnancy; D013002:Somatomedins / Q000378:metabolism; D014131:Trace Elements / Q000378:metabolism
D005227:Fatty Acids; C064980:GH2 protein, human; D020738:Leptin; D010926:Placental Hormones; D013002:Somatomedins; D014131:Trace Elements; D013006:Growth Hormone