Bile acid metabolism and type 2 diabetes

Studies show that dysregulation of bile acids could affect insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism.Bile acids are metabolic regulators that act as signaling molecules through receptor-dependent and -independent pathways.The most prominent signaling molecules mediating bile acid signaling are the nuclear receptor farnesoid X receptor(FXR) and the membrane receptor G protein-coupled bile acid receptor 5 (TGR5).Dysregulation of these pathways might contribute to the reduction of insulin sensitivity.Therefore,the manipulation of bile acid homeostasis,especially the regulation of its signaling pathways might be a potential treatment of type 2 diabetes. Key words: Bile acids;  Type 2 diabetes mellitus;  Farnesoid X receptor;  G protein-coupled bile acid receptor 5