Computational modelling of fatty acid transport in the human placenta.

Fatty acids are critical for normal fetal growth and development. The placenta mediates the transfer of fatty acids from the maternal to the fetal circulation. Yet, the mechanisms of fatty acid transport are not fully understood. The development of a computational model alongside experiments will test our understanding of the transfer mechanisms. Modelling experimental data suggest the presence of a metabolic pool within placental tissue that could represent the rate-limiting factor for fatty acid transfer. In addition the model suggests a slower flux capacity of the fetal-side of the placenta compared with the maternal-side. The model provides key insights into placental fatty acid transfer which will form the basis for future experimentation.