Leptin alters placental amino acid transport

Maternal leptin is elevated during pregnancy and preeclampsia, and is postulated to be an important mediator of reproductive function and metabolic regulation. Amino acids serve as one of the main nutrient sources for the fetus and the activity of placental amino acid transporters is crucial in the regulation of fetal growth. However, the role of leptin in placental function is not fully understood. Objective: To investigate the role of leptin on system A amino acid transport in human placenta. Methods: The uptake of C14-MeAIB was investigated after incubation of primary villous fragments isolated from placentas…