Bile acids

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Bile Acids

Bile acids (/baɪl/ /ˈæsɪdz/), also known as bile salts, are steroid acids found predominantly in the bile of mammals and other vertebrates. They are produced in the liver and stored in the gallbladder until needed for digestion.

Etymology

The term "bile" comes from the Latin "bilis", which means "gall" or "bile". The term "acid" comes from the Latin "acidus", meaning "sour". The term "bile acid" therefore refers to the sour substance found in the gall or bile.

Production and Function

Bile acids are produced in the liver from cholesterol through a process known as bile acid synthesis. They are then stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine during digestion to help break down fats and absorb fat-soluble vitamins.

Types of Bile Acids

There are two primary types of bile acids: primary and secondary. Primary bile acids, including cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid, are synthesized directly in the liver. Secondary bile acids, such as deoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid, are formed in the intestine by bacterial action.

Related Terms

  • Cholesterol: A type of fat that is used to make bile acids.
  • Gallbladder: The organ where bile acids are stored.
  • Liver: The organ where bile acids are produced.
  • Small Intestine: The part of the digestive tract where bile acids are released to aid in digestion.

External links

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