Bile Acids: chemistry, biosynthesis, analysis, chemical and metabolic transformations and pharmacology

摘要

Bile acids are important biological compounds that are crucial for functions like the elimination of cholesterol and the intestinal solubilisation of lipids and vitamins. However, these compounds are so interesting not only because of their biological function, but also because they have major therapeutic applications. These can be exerted either by the specific activity of the bile acid itself or by the bile acids acting as absorption promoters and carriers that increase the delivery of other drugs. Thus, bile acids are at the focus of intensive research.