Hyodeoxycholic acid

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Hyodeoxycholic acid is a bile acid that is found in the bile of various mammals, including humans. It is a secondary bile acid, which means it is produced by the bacterial action in the intestine from primary bile acids. Specifically, hyodeoxycholic acid is derived from the primary bile acid chenodeoxycholic acid.

Structure and Properties

Hyodeoxycholic acid is a hydroxy bile acid with the chemical formula C24H40O4. It has a molecular weight of 392.57 g/mol. The structure of hyodeoxycholic acid includes a steroid nucleus with hydroxyl groups attached at specific positions, which contribute to its solubility and function in the digestive system.

Function

In the human body, hyodeoxycholic acid plays a role in the digestion and absorption of dietary fats. It acts as a detergent, emulsifying fats to facilitate their breakdown by lipase enzymes. This process is essential for the efficient absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and other nutrients.

Synthesis and Metabolism

Hyodeoxycholic acid is synthesized in the liver from chenodeoxycholic acid through the action of intestinal bacteria. Once formed, it is reabsorbed into the bloodstream and transported back to the liver, where it can be reconjugated and secreted into the bile. This enterohepatic circulation is crucial for maintaining the body's bile acid pool.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in bile acid metabolism, including levels of hyodeoxycholic acid, can be associated with various liver and gastrointestinal diseases. For example, abnormal levels of bile acids can be found in conditions such as cholestasis, liver cirrhosis, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Research and Applications

Research into hyodeoxycholic acid and other bile acids continues to provide insights into their roles in health and disease. Potential therapeutic applications include the use of bile acid derivatives in the treatment of liver diseases and metabolic disorders.

See Also

• Bile acid
• Chenodeoxycholic acid
• Cholestasis
• Liver cirrhosis
• Inflammatory bowel disease