The Biosynthesis, Signaling, and Neurological Functions of Bile Acids.
Bile acids (BA) are amphipathic steroid acids synthesized from cholesterol in the liver. They act as detergents to expedite the digestion and absorption of dietary lipids and lipophilic vitamins. BA are also considered to be signaling molecules, being ligands of nuclear and cell-surface receptors, including farnesoid X receptor and Takeda G-protein receptor 5. Moreover, BA also activate ion channels, including the bile acid-sensitive ion channel and epithelial Na+ channel. BA regulate glucose and lipid metabolism by activating these receptors in peripheral tissues, such as the liver and brown and white adipose tissue. Recently, 20 different BA have been identified in the central nervous system. Furthermore, BA affect the function of neurotransmitter receptors, such as the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor and γ-aminobutyric acid receptor. BA are also known to be protective against neurodegeneration. Here, we review recent findings regarding the biosynthesis, signaling, and neurological functions of BA.
['Kiriyama|Yoshimitsu|Y|0000-0002-7653-483X', 'Nochi|Hiromi|H|0000-0003-2352-8716']
D000818:Animals D001647:Bile Acids and Salts D001921:Brain D006801:Humans D009462:Neurology D015398:Signal Transduction
bile acids ALS Alzheimer’s disease FXR Huntington’s disease Parkinson’s disease SHP TGR5