Bile acids and FXR in functional gastrointestinal disorders

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Microbiology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and chronic constipation (CC), represent a significant global health burden.
• The farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and bile acids (BAs) are critical regulators of gastrointestinal homeostasis.
• Imbalances in FXR signaling or BA composition are implicated in the pathogenesis of FGIDs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the intricate relationship between FXR, bile acids, and gut microbiota composition.
• To explore how these interactions influence the development of gastrointestinal symptoms in FGIDs.
• To highlight potential therapeutic targets within the FXR-bile acid-microbiota axis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating FXR, bile acids, and gut microbiota in FGIDs.
• Analysis of mechanisms linking FXR dysfunction to altered bile acid metabolism.
• Examination of the impact of microbiota dysbiosis on intestinal function and motility.

Main Results:

• Alterations in FXR expression and bile acid profiles are associated with FGIDs.
• FXR dysfunction impacts bile acid pool size, intestinal permeability, and gut microbiota.
• Changes in gut microbiota diversity and abundance correlate with intestinal dysmotility in FGIDs.

Conclusions:

• The interplay between FXR, bile acids, and gut microbiota is fundamental to gastrointestinal health.
• Dysregulation of this axis contributes significantly to the pathophysiology of FGIDs.
• Targeting the FXR-bile acid-microbiota axis may offer novel therapeutic strategies for FGIDs.