Chenodeoxycholic acid triggers inflammation and may contribute to liver scarring in bile flow blockage

Chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) could dose-dependently activate the NLRP3 inflammasome and promote inflammation in macrophages.

• Excessive bile acids in the liver are linked to cholestatic liver injury and inflammation.
• CDCA induces the release of the inflammatory cytokine IL-1β from macrophages.
• Activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome by CDCA is associated with increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and potassium ion efflux.
• CDCA triggers ROS formation through specific signaling pathways involving TGR5 and EGFR.
• Inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome in a mouse model reduced inflammation and liver fibrosis.

Simplified