Pleiotropic effects of ursodeoxycholic acid

Abstract

The article summarizes the literature data on the expansion of the range of application of ursodeoxycholic acid due to its various mechanisms of action. Almost 50-year history of the study of its properties has proven choleretic, litholytic, antiapoptotic, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, cytoprotective, antifibrotic and hypocholesterolemic effects. In addition to the well-known functions of bile acids, their role has been shown as signa­ling, endocrine molecules that regulate glucose, lipids, and energy metabolism through pathways mediated by the activation of the nuclear receptor of the farnesoid X receptor and the cell surface G protein-coupled receptor, TGR5. The variety of nosological forms in which this substance can be successfully used is substantiated.

Keywords

• ursodeoxycholic acid, properties, mechanism of action, farnesoid x receptor, tgr5