Enterocyte fatty acid uptake and intestinal fatty acid-binding protein

Abstract

This article reviews our current understanding of the uptake of fatty acids by the enterocytes of the intestine. The micellar solubilization of fatty acids by bile salts and the factors regulating that process are discussed. The mechanism of how micellar solubilization of fatty acids promotes the uptake of fatty acids by enterocytes and their relative importance is reviewed. Additionally, discussion of the various fatty acid transporters located at the brush border membrane of the enterocytes is included. Finally, a summary of our current understanding of the function of fatty-acid-binding proteins inside enterocytes is provided.