Lipids and Fatty Acids in the Preterm Infant, Part 1: Basic Mechanisms of Delivery, Hydrolysis, and Bioavailability

Abstract

Lipids represent a diverse class of organic compounds that are critical for optimal nutrition, growth, and development. Fatty acids are the major building blocks for these compounds, and their structural configuration defines their bioactive potential in optimizing cell membrane structure and function. Activation and metabolism of membrane-bound long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids lead to the production of terminal metabolites that have diverse properties in regulating inflammation and organogenesis and thus are critical in maintaining global health. This article (part 1) provides a review of basic mechanisms in lipid and fatty acid delivery, hydrolysis, and bioavailability. Part 2 highlights the special considerations for preterm infants in the pathways of lipid hydrolysis and fatty acid bioavailability, including their unique needs in polyunsaturated fatty acids.