Protein and Amino Acid Metabolism in the Fetal- Placental Unit

Introduction Protein synthesis and accretion are the cornerstones of growth that provide the structural framework and enzymatic machinery necessary for fetal development. The maternal uterine circulation supplies the components that the fetus uses for protein accretion. All are derived from the maternal diet or maternal tissue stores. It is important to explore the regulatory processes within the maternal, placental, and fetal compartments that determine fetal amino acid retention. In addition to tissue synthesis, use of free amino acids as oxidative fuel is extensive in the well-nourished fetus and increases significantly during periods of maternal food deprivation. The changes in fetal amino acid utilization represent a significant mechanism by which the fetus adapts to energy deprivation.