Bile Secretion

Bile secretion is the physiological process by which bile, a complex aqueous fluid, is produced by hepatocytes (liver cells), modified as it passes through the biliary tree, stored in the gallbladder, and ultimately released into the duodenum to aid in digestion—primarily fat emulsification and absorption. This process involves the coordinated action of hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, and various transporters (e.g., BSEP, ABC transporters). The enterohepatic circulation of bile acids is a key component of this process, regulated by nuclear receptors like FXR. Disruption of bile secretion can lead to malabsorption, jaundice, and cholestasis.

Varies depending on specific drug; includes bile acid replacement and FXR pathway modulation.