Bile formation and secretion: An update

Bile formation is a fundamental physiological process that is vital to the survival of all vertebrates. However, little was known about the mechanisms of this secretion until after World War II. Initial studies involved classic physiologic studies in animal models and humans, which progressed to include studies in isolated cells and membrane vesicles. The advent of molecular biology then led to the identification of specific transport systems that are the determinants of this secretion. Progress in this field was reviewed in the American Physiologic Society's series on Comprehensive Physiology in 2013. Herein, we provide an in-depth update of progress since that time. (C) 2021 Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of European Association for the Study of the Liver.

Automated summary

Bile formation is a crucial physiological process for the survival of vertebrates, with its mechanisms gradually understood after World War II. From classic physiologic studies in animal models and humans to research in isolated cells and membrane vesicles, the identification of specific transport systems has been key to understanding this secretion. Progress in this field was reviewed in 2013, and this update provides further insights into advancements made since then.