Understanding How Bile Acids and Energy Centers in Cells Work Together: Possible Links to Disease and Treatment Options

Bile acids may orchestrate a regulatory network affecting mitochondrial quality control through several receptors.

• Bile acids regulate mitochondrial biogenesis, dynamic equilibrium, selective autophagy, and redox balance.
• TGR5 activates mitochondrial biogenesis through a specific signaling pathway while also influencing mitochondrial fission and calcium levels.
• FXR is involved in regulating fatty acid breakdown, antioxidant defense, and cell death pathways, and can improve certain autophagy processes in liver disease.
• Other receptors like S1PR2, VDR, and PXR also contribute to the regulation of mitochondrial function and autophagy.
• Dysregulation of this network is linked to various metabolic disorders, including fatty liver disease and diabetic complications.
• Agonists targeting these receptors have shown potential in restoring mitochondrial function and reducing tissue damage in animal studies.

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