Intestinal lipid absorption and transport

The purpose of this review is to update the reader on our current knowledge of the digestion, uptake, and transport of dietary lipid. In particular, i t discusses how intestinal lipid transporters may play a role in the uptake of lipids by the enterocytes, and how chylomicrons are formed in the enter ocytes and packaged for export into the lymphatic system through exocytosis . The classification and properties of lipids is first described followed b y a discussion of structured lipids and their role in human nutrition. Dige stion of triacylglycerols takes place in the stomach aided by the enzyme ga stric lipase. The origin and properties of lingual and gastric lipase are r eviewed. Most digestion of triacylglycerols by pancreatic lipase occurs in the intestinal lumen. Similarly, digestion of cholesteryl ester and phospho lipids also takes place in the intestinal lumen. This review describes in c onsiderable detail the uptake of lipid digestion products by the enterocyte s, particularly the role of recently identified lipid transporters. The int racellular trafficking and the resynthesis of complex lipids from the lipid digestion products are talked about, particularly within the context of th e recently generated knockout mouse that lacks the key lipid reesterificati on enzymes. Finally, the mechanisms of the formation and secretion of chylo microns is described and clinical disorders discussed.