Conversion of cholesterol into bile acids, steroid hormone, and vitamin D
Primary Location: Liver
Steps Involved:
1. Initial Step:
Cholesterol is converted to 7α-hydroxycholesterol by cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1), the rate-limiting step.
2. Subsequent Reactions:
Further hydroxylation, oxidation, and conjugation reactions produce cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid.
3. Formation of Bile Salts:
These acids are conjugated with glycine or taurine, enhancing their solubility and effectiveness in emulsifying dietary fats.
4. Storage and Release:
Bile salts are stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to aid in fat digestion and absorption.