Effects of bile acids and their related nuclear receptors on intestinal mucosal barrier

Bile acids are the end product of cholesterol metabolism, which is the main component of bile. Bile acids can not only promote the absorption of fat and fat-soluble vitamins but also be used as the important signal molecules to activate nuclear receptors. It regulates metabolism of bile acids and intestinal homeostasis. The bile acids’ effect on intestinal mucosal barrier function has been controversial until now. Bile acids is both hydrophilic and hydrophobic simultaneously. Hydrophilic bile acid can promote cell proli-feration, while hydrophobic bile acid can promote cell apoptosis. The stronger the hydrophobicity is, the greater the cellular damage effect will be. The activation of nuclear receptor by bile acids can protect intestinal mucosal barrier. New research progress of the bile acid regulation in intestinal mucosal barrier function is reviewed in this article. Key words: Bile acids and salt; Intestinal mucosal barrier; Nuclear receptors