The many facets of bile acids in the physiology and pathophysiology of the human liver

Bile acids perform vital functions in the human liver and are the essential component of bile. It is therefore not surprising that the biology of bile acids is extremely complex, regulated on different levels, and involves soluble and membrane receptors as well as transporters. Hereditary disorders of these proteins manifest in different pathophysiological processes that result in liver diseases of varying severity. In this review, we summarize our current knowledge of the physiology and pathophysiology of bile acids with an emphasis on recently established analytical approaches as well as the molecular mechanisms that underlie signaling and transport of bile acids. In this review, we will focus on ABC transporters of the canalicular membrane and their associated diseases. As the G proteincoupled receptor, TGR5, receives increasing attention, we have included aspects of this receptor and its interaction with bile acids.

Automated summary

Bile acids play a vital role in the liver and are a complex biological component regulated by different levels and receptors. Hereditary disorders of these proteins can lead to various liver diseases. Recent research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of bile acid signaling and transport.