Uptake of free fatty acids and chylomicron glycerides by guinea pig mammary gland in pregnancy and lactation

Abstract

Mammary tissue of lactating guinea pigs was shown to take up both free fatty acids and chylomicron glycerides from plasma approximately twenty times more rapidly than mammary glands from midpregnant animals. The rates of removal of both forms of lipid by lactating mammary gland are comparable with those of liver. Free fatty acids cross the placental membrane and are rapidly taken up by fetuses at midpregnancy. There is no transfer of chylomicron glyceride across the placental membrane.