Bile Associated Diseases and Disorders
Bile Acids – Physiological Functions
Bile acids are amphipathic molecules derived from cholesterol in the liver. They are stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine after meals.
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Fat Digestion & Absorption
- Primary function
- Bile acids emulsify dietary fats, breaking large fat globules into micelles.
- This increases the surface area for pancreatic lipase to act.
- Micelles formed help in absorption of:
- Fatty acids
- Monoglycerides
- Cholesterol
- Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K)
Signaling Molecules
- Bile acids act as hormone-like signaling molecules via:
- FXR (Farnesoid X Receptor)
- TGR5 (G-protein-coupled bile acid receptor)
- Regulate:
- Lipid and glucose metabolism
- Insulin sensitivity
- Inflammation
- Bile acid synthesis feedback
Cholesterol Excretion
- Bile acids are the main route for cholesterol elimination from the body.
- Cholesterol is converted into bile acids and excreted into bile.
- Some bile acids are lost in feces, removing cholesterol.
Regulation of Bile Flow
- Bile acids stimulate bile flow (choleresis).
- This helps maintain the fluidity of bile and prevents gallstone formation.
Antimicrobial Action
- Bile acids disrupt bacterial membranes and help control gut microbiota.
- This limits bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
Summary Table
Function
Details
Fat digestion
Emulsify fats, form micelles, aid absorption
Cholesterol removal
Convert cholesterol to bile acids for fecal excretion
Stimulate bile secretion
Promote bile flow and prevent gallstones
Antimicrobial
Protect against intestinal bacterial overgrowth/p>
Metabolic regulation
Act as signaling molecules (via FXR, TGR5) to influence metabolism