In Vitro Transformation of Cheno- and Ursodeoxycholic Acids and Their 7-Oleyl Esters by Human Intestinal Microflora

Abstract

Chenodeoxycholic and ursodeoxycholic acid are used widely for the treatment of gallstones. A possible drawback to their utility is their conversion to lithocholic acid, which has displayed histotoxicity and mutagenicity. The 7-oleyl esters of cheno- and ursodeoxycholic acid are not degraded by fecal bacteria and may represent safer means of treatment.