The interrelationship between bile acid and vitamin A homeostasis

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Nutritional Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Vitamin A is crucial for numerous physiological functions, including vision and immune response.
• Bile acids, synthesized in the liver, are essential for vitamin A absorption and homeostasis.
• The liver stores vitamin A, primarily in hepatic stellate cells, in collaboration with hepatocytes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the communication between vitamin A metabolites and bile acids.
• To highlight the relevance of this interaction in chronic liver diseases.
• To discuss potential therapeutic implications.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on molecular mechanisms and cellular interactions.
• Analysis of the roles of Retinoic Acid Receptor (RAR), Retinoid X Receptor (RXR), and Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR).
• Examination of vitamin A and bile acid homeostasis in the context of liver disease.

Main Results:

• Disturbed bile acid and vitamin A homeostasis characterize chronic liver diseases.
• Hepatic stellate cells' role in vitamin A storage is compromised during disease progression.
• Vitamin A deficiency can result from impaired bile acid metabolism in liver disease.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin A metabolites and bile acids engage in intricate crosstalk, regulated by nuclear receptors.
• Understanding this crosstalk is vital for managing chronic liver diseases.
• Targeting this communication may offer novel therapeutic approaches for liver conditions.