Influence of Bile Acids on Cholesterol Metabolism in the Mouse.

Abstract

Mice received diets supplemented with various bile acids for a 3-week period. The effects of cholic, deoxycholic, hyodeoxycholic, and lithocholic acids were studied with respect to tissue cholesterol (C) levels and synthesis rates. Cholic acid increased hepatic and intestinal C levels, but had no effect on kidney C. It decreased hepatic C synthesis rates, but had no effect on intestinal synthesis rates. Hyodeoxycholic and lithocholic acids decreased liver C levels. Hyodeoxycholic acid had no effect on intestine and kidney C, or on intestinal C-x-C14 Both acids effected large increases in hepatic C synthesis. Deoxycholic acid significantly decreased liver, small intestine and kidney C levels. It also decreased hepatic C synthesis. Results of this study suggest that the homeostatic control of C metabolism in tissues other than liver is indepehdent of hepatic control.