Bile Acids and the Potential Role in Primary Biliary Cirrhosis.

BACKGROUND

Bile acids (BAs) play a potential role in regulating the whole-body metabolic homeostasis via the interaction with gut microbiome and the signal transduction as messengers, which establish a link between the primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and gut microbiome in many aspects, particularly with regard to the immune system of the body. PBC, as a chronic cholestatic liver disease characterised by the destruction of small intrahepatic bile ducts, causes fibrosis and potential cirrhosis without efficient therapies.

SUMMARY

Recent researches show BAs can induce the differentiation of hepatic stellate cells, suggesting that it may serve as a novel therapy to resist, even changeover the irreversible liver cirrhosis in PBC. Key Messages: In this review, we conclude and provide information on the possible mechanism of pleiotropic BAs in homeostasis of the gut microbiome and liver regeneration, and hope to broaden the therapy of PBC and promote the relevant drugs' development.

© 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.