positive regulation of bile acid biosynthetic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that activates or increases the frequency, rate or extent of the chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the formation of bile acids. [GOC:BHF, GOC:mah]

Positive regulation of bile acid biosynthetic process involves a complex interplay of molecular mechanisms that enhance the production of bile acids. This process is essential for the digestion and absorption of fats, as well as for the detoxification of harmful substances in the liver. The key regulatory steps include:

1. **Transcriptional regulation:** Transcription factors like FXR (farnesoid X receptor) and PXR (pregnane X receptor) play a crucial role in regulating the expression of genes involved in bile acid synthesis. Upon activation by bile acids, these receptors activate the transcription of genes encoding enzymes responsible for bile acid biosynthesis, such as CYP7A1 and CYP8B1.

2. **Post-translational modification:** Enzymes involved in bile acid biosynthesis are subject to post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation and ubiquitination, which influence their activity. For example, phosphorylation of CYP7A1 can inhibit its activity, while ubiquitination can target it for degradation.

3. **Feedback regulation:** Bile acids themselves can exert a feedback regulatory effect on their own biosynthesis. As bile acid levels increase in the liver, they activate FXR, leading to repression of CYP7A1 expression and a reduction in bile acid synthesis.

4. **Hormonal regulation:** Hormones such as glucagon and insulin can also influence bile acid synthesis. Glucagon stimulates bile acid production by promoting the expression of CYP7A1, while insulin has an inhibitory effect.

5. **Dietary factors:** Diet can influence bile acid biosynthesis by altering the composition of gut microbiota, which can modulate bile acid metabolism.

In summary, the positive regulation of bile acid biosynthetic process involves a complex interplay of transcriptional, post-translational, feedback, hormonal, and dietary factors that ultimately control the rate of bile acid synthesis.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (4)