Lithocholic acid

Lithocholic Acid

Chemical structure of lithocholic acid

Lithocholic acid (LCA) is a bile acid that is produced in the liver from cholesterol. It is one of the secondary bile acids, which are formed by the action of intestinal bacteria on primary bile acids. Lithocholic acid is known for its role in the digestion and absorption of dietary fats and oils.

Chemical Structure

Lithocholic acid is a steroid with a hydroxyl group at the 3-alpha position. Its chemical formula is C₂₄H₄₀O₃. The structure of lithocholic acid is characterized by a hydrophobic steroid nucleus and a carboxylic acid group, which makes it amphipathic.

Biological Function

Lithocholic acid plays a crucial role in the emulsification of fats, aiding in their digestion and absorption in the small intestine. It is a product of the bacterial metabolism of cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid, which are primary bile acids synthesized in the liver.

Health Implications

While lithocholic acid is essential for fat digestion, it has been associated with certain health risks. High concentrations of lithocholic acid can be cytotoxic and have been implicated in the development of colorectal cancer. It is also known to cause cholestasis, a condition where bile flow from the liver is reduced or blocked.

Metabolism

Lithocholic acid is metabolized in the liver through sulfation and glucuronidation, which make it more water-soluble and facilitate its excretion in bile. The enterohepatic circulation of bile acids involves the reabsorption of lithocholic acid in the intestine and its return to the liver.

Related Pages

• Bile acid
• Cholesterol
• Intestinal bacteria
• Colorectal cancer
• Cholestasis