Abstract
This article provides a review of the pathways through which cholesterol is degraded to bile acids. Regulation of key enzymes in the bile acid biosynthestic pathways is discussed. The important role of these pathways in the maintenance of cholesterol homeostasis and the possible therapeutic implications for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia are emphasized.
Publication types
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
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Review
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Bile Acids and Salts / biosynthesis*
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Bile Acids and Salts / genetics
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Cholestanetriol 26-Monooxygenase
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Cholesterol / metabolism
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Cholesterol 7-alpha-Hydroxylase / genetics
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Cholesterol 7-alpha-Hydroxylase / metabolism
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Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System / genetics
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Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System / metabolism
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Homeostasis
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Humans
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Liver / metabolism*
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Metabolism, Inborn Errors / metabolism
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Steroid Hydroxylases / genetics
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Steroid Hydroxylases / metabolism
Substances
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Bile Acids and Salts
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Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
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Cholesterol
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Steroid Hydroxylases
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Cholesterol 7-alpha-Hydroxylase
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CYP27A1 protein, human
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Cholestanetriol 26-Monooxygenase