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Invasive Hemodynamic Characterization of the Portal-hypertensive Syndrome in Cirrhotic Rats
Published on: August 1, 2018
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Bile Acids and Portal Hypertension
Juan Pablo Arab1, Francisco Barrera1, Marco Arrese1
1Departamento de Gastroenterología, Escuela de Medicina. Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Santiago, Chile.
Annals of Hepatology
|October 29, 2017
Summary
Bile acids (BAs) and their receptors are key to understanding vasorelaxation and portal hypertension. Targeting these pathways shows promise for treating portal hypertension.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Physiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Bile acids (BAs) play crucial roles in biological processes, with recent discoveries revamping research.
- Vasoactive actions of BAs and mechanisms of BA-induced vasorelaxation are increasingly understood.
- Bile acid receptors like FXR and TGR5 are present in endothelial cells, impacting circulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent data on BA-dependent pathways influencing portal hypertension (PHT).
- To summarize preclinical findings on the pharmacological modulation of BA receptors for PHT treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature on bile acid receptors and their roles.
- Analysis of preclinical data from studies using genetically engineered mice and BA receptor agonists.
Main Results:
- Bile acid receptors (FXR and TGR5) are expressed in endothelial cells and affect systemic and portal circulation.
- Modulation of FXR and TGR5 in portal hypertension models shows promising results.
- BA-dependent pathways significantly influence processes relevant to PHT.
Conclusions:
- Bile acid signaling pathways are critical in the context of portal hypertension.
- Pharmacological targeting of BA receptors offers a potential therapeutic strategy for treating PHT.
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