Chapter 12, Problem 71TQ

Summary Introduction

To review:

The mechanism behind lowering of serum cholesterol by the anion-exchange resin, cholestyramine.

Introduction:

Cholesterol serves as the precursor for bile acids that are synthesized within the liver, and secreted in the bile juice. Bile acids cause the emulsification of dietary fats, and aid in their digestion. A majority of these bile salts are reabsorbed from distal ileum, and are transported back to the liver by the portal system. In this way, the bile acids get effectively recycled in the body.