Targeting Bile-Acid Metabolism: Nutritional and Microbial Approaches to Alleviate Ulcerative Colitis

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Microbiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the colorectum with a substantial global health impact.
• Emerging research emphasizes the crucial role of gut microbiota and its metabolites, specifically bile acids (BAs), in UC pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the classification, synthesis, and metabolism of bile acids (BAs).
• To explore the intricate bidirectional relationship between gut microbiota and BAs.
• To examine the therapeutic potential of targeting BA metabolism and gut microbiota for ulcerative colitis (UC) management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on bile acid metabolism, gut microbiota interactions, and therapeutic interventions.
• Analysis of the roles of Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5 (TGR5) in mediating BA-microbiota crosstalk.
• Evaluation of nutritional and microbial strategies for modulating the gut environment in UC.

Main Results:

• Bile acids (BAs) and gut microbiota exhibit a reciprocal relationship, influencing each other's composition and activity.
• BAs regulate microbiota through specific receptors like FXR and TGR5.
• Nutritional and microbial interventions show potential for reshaping gut microbiota and managing UC.

Conclusions:

• The interplay between bile acids (BAs) and gut microbiota is central to ulcerative colitis (UC) pathogenesis.
• Targeting bile acid metabolism represents a promising therapeutic avenue for UC.
• Further research into nutritional and microbial therapies can offer innovative approaches for UC treatment.