Lithocholic acid

Lithocholic acid (also known as 3α-hydroxy-5β-cholanic acid) is a bile acid that is produced in the liver and is one of the secondary bile acids, which are metabolic byproducts of intestinal bacteria.

Production and Metabolism

The primary bile acids, chenodeoxycholic acid and cholic acid, are synthesized in the liver and are metabolized by intestinal bacteria into secondary bile acids, lithocholic acid and deoxycholic acid, respectively. Lithocholic acid is less soluble than other bile acids, and it is also more toxic. It can cause damage to the gallbladder and the biliary tree if it is not properly metabolized.

Function

Lithocholic acid is a hydrophobic molecule, and its primary function is to facilitate the digestion and absorption of dietary fats in the small intestine. It acts as a detergent to solubilize fats in the digestive tract and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K.

Clinical Significance

In high concentrations, lithocholic acid is toxic and can cause cholestasis, a condition where bile cannot flow from the liver to the duodenum. This can lead to jaundice, cirrhosis, and other serious liver diseases. Lithocholic acid is also implicated in the development of gallstones.

Therapeutic Uses

Lithocholic acid and its derivatives have been studied for their potential therapeutic uses. They have been found to have cytotoxic effects on cancer cells and have been investigated for use in cancer therapy. They also have potential use in the treatment of cystic fibrosis and other diseases that affect bile production or secretion.

See Also

• Bile acid
• Chenodeoxycholic acid
• Cholic acid
• Deoxycholic acid
• Gallstones
• Cholestasis

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