nutriëtentransport

Nutriëtentransport is the term used to describe the coordinated movement of nutrients from sites of intake or synthesis to cells and tissues that require them. It encompasses absorption at mucosal surfaces, distribution through body fluids, and uptake by target cells, as well as intracellular trafficking to subcellular compartments. The process operates across species and tissue types, with distinct pathways in plants and animals.

In animals, nutriëtentransport begins in the digestive tract where nutrients are absorbed into the circulatory or lymphatic systems. Carbohydrates and amino acids enter portal blood, and lipids are transported via chylomicrons. The circulatory system distributes nutrients to tissues; endothelial transport and capillary exchange regulate their delivery. Cellular uptake is mediated by transport proteins, such as glucose transporters, amino acid transporters, and fatty acid transport proteins, often regulated by hormones including insulin, glucagon, and gut-derived signals. Energy-dependent active transport and vesicular mechanisms enable uptake against gradients and intracellular routing to organelles.

In plants, nutrients are moved from roots to shoots via the xylem, driven by transpiration, while phloem distributes photosynthates and minerals to growing tissues. Root uptake involves transporters for minerals like nitrate, phosphate, and potassium, often coordinated by soil signals and hormonal status.

Clinical relevance includes malabsorption, nutrient deficiencies, and disorders of transport regulation. Measurement methods include isotope tracing, fecal fat tests, and imaging of transporter expression. Nutriëtentransport is a fundamental concept in physiology and nutrition science, bridging intake, distribution, and cellular utilization of nutrients.