The functions of gut microbiota-mediated bile acid metabolism in intestinal immunity

Background

Bile acids, derived from cholesterol in the liver, consist a steroidal core. Primary bile acids and secondary bile acids metabolized by the gut microbiota make up the bile acid pool, which modulate nuclear hormone receptors to regulate immunity. Disruptions in the crosstalk between bile acids and the gut flora are intimately associated with the development and course of gastrointestinal inflammation.

Aim of review

This review provides an extensive summary of bile acid production, transport and metabolism. It also delves into the impact of bile acid metabolism on the body and explores the involvement of bile acid-microbiota interactions in various disease states. Furthermore, the potential of targeting bile acid signaling as a means to prevent and treat inflammatory bowel disease is proposed.

Key scientific concepts of review

In this review, we primarily address the functions of bile acid-microbiota crosstalk in diseases. Firstly, we summarize bile acid signalling and the factors influencing bile acid metabolism, with highlighting the immune function of microbially conjugated bile acids and the unique roles of different receptors. Subsequently, we emphasize the vital role of bile acids in maintaining a healthy gut microbiota and regulating the intestinal barrier function, energy metabolism and immunity. Finally we explore differences of bile acid metabolism in different disease states, offering new perspectives on restoring the host’s health and the gastrointestinal ecosystem by targeting the gut microbiota-bile acid-bile acid receptor axis.