Which of the following modifications increases the working pH range and amphipathic nature of bile acids?
A) conjugation to taurine or glycine
B) dehydroxylation by intestinal bacteria
C) esterification
D) formation of sodium or potassium salts
E) 7a-hydroxylation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Conjugation to taurine or glycine increases the working pH range and amphipathic nature of bile acids by making them more water-soluble and effective at emulsifying fats.  Bile acids are modified, prior to secretion from the liver into the bile canaliculi, by addition of the amino acid glycine or taurine. The addition of these amino groups increases amphipathic nature of bile acids making them more easily secretable as well as less cytotoxic.

Which of the Following Modifications Increases the Working PH Range