Bile is not a hormone, but it contains bile acids, which are now recognized as nutrient signaling molecules or hormones. These bile acids are essential for fat digestion and absorption in the gut. They also play a crucial role in regulating various metabolic processes, including:
- Glucose metabolism
- Lipid metabolism
- Lipoprotein metabolism
- Energy expenditure
- Inflammatory responses
Bile acids are produced in the liver and stored in the gallbladder. They are released into the small intestine where they aid in breaking down fats.
The liver conjugates bile acids with glycine or taurine to form bile salts, which are more effective in emulsifying fats.
In addition to their role in digestion, bile acids also act as signaling molecules that influence various metabolic pathways. They activate nuclear receptors and intracellular signaling pathways within the liver, gut, and other tissues.
Reference: It is now clear that bile acid function as hormones or nutrient signaling molecules that help to regulate glucose, lipid, lipoprotein, energy metabolism and inflammatory responses (5, 6).
