1. Chemical Properties

  • Chemical Name: 3α,7α,12α-Trihydroxy-5β-cholan-24-oic acid.
  • CAS No.: 81-25-4.
  • Molecular Formula: C24H40O5; Molecular Weight: 408.57.
  • Appearance: Colorless flakes or white crystalline powder; odorless with a bitter taste. Solid monohydrate exists as white flaky crystals.
  • Solubility:
    • Practically insoluble in water (extremely low solubility at room temperature).
    • Freely soluble in ethanol and glacial acetic acid; slightly soluble in acetone.

2. Source and Preparation

  • Natural Source: Primarily extracted from bovine or ovine bile via complex industrial processes.

3. Pharmacological and Biological Activities

  • Lipid Metabolism:
    • Emulsifies dietary fats as a major bile component, enhancing digestion and absorption.
  • Metabolic Regulation:
    • Cholesterol Metabolism: Inhibits HMG-CoA reductase to reduce cholesterol synthesis; modulates bile acid synthesis enzyme CYP7A1 via FXR receptor for metabolic balance.
    • Energy Metabolism: Activates thyroid hormone deiodinase to increase energy expenditure, suppressing obesity.
    • Blood Glucose Control: Stimulates intestinal GLP-1 secretion to lower blood glucose.
  • Anti-inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Effects:
    • Suppresses macrophage inflammatory responses via TGR5 receptor and regulates immune balance.
  • Antibacterial Action: Inhibits pathogens like Salmonella, reducing intestinal infection risks.

4. Applications

  • Pharmaceuticals:
    • Raw material for drug formulations.
  • Industry and Food:
    • Emulsifier: Used in lubricants, detergents, and cosmetics.
    • Food Additive: Enhances flavor and fat absorption (e.g., taurocholic acid, TCA).
  • Agriculture and Feed:
    • Feed additive to promote animal growth and improve gut health.

5. Production and Supply

  • Primary Manufacturer: Qinghai Xiadu Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (supplies APIs).
  • Packaging Specifications: 10 mg to 25 kg.