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The mutagenicity of bile acids using a fluctuation test
Mutation Research
|October 1, 1985
Summary
Bile acids, including cholic and deoxycholic acid, were found to be mutagenic in a bacterial test. This discovery suggests a potential link between bile acid mutagenicity and the development of colon cancer.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Bile acids are crucial for digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Epidemiological studies indicate a correlation between elevated bile acid levels and colon cancer incidence.
- The mutagenic potential of bile acids has not been previously established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mutagenicity of common bile acids.
- To determine if bile acids can induce genetic mutations.
- To explore the potential role of bile acid mutagenicity in colon cancer etiology.
Main Methods:
- A fluctuation test was employed using Salmonella typhimurium strains TA100 and TA98.
- Specific bile acids tested included cholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, deoxycholic acid, ursodeoxycholic acid, and lithocholic acid.
- Mutagenicity was assessed by comparing mutation rates in the presence and absence of bile acids.
Main Results:
- Cholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, deoxycholic acid, and ursodeoxycholic acid demonstrated mutagenicity in the Salmonella assay.
- Lithocholic acid did not exhibit mutagenic activity under the test conditions.
- The mutagenic potency of these bile acids was approximately one-fourth that of methyl methanesulfonate.
Conclusions:
- Bile acids possess mutagenic properties, as evidenced by the bacterial fluctuation test.
- These findings provide the first evidence of bile acid mutagenicity.
- Bile acid mutagenicity may represent a significant factor in the development of colon cancer.