Glycodeoxycholic Acid
Also known as: GDCA, Glyco-DCA, Glyco-deoxycholic acid, Glycodeoxycholic acid, Glycodeoxycholic Acid
Overview
Glycodeoxycholic acid (GDCA) is a bile acid synthesized in the liver and intestines, characterized by its conjugation with glycine. It plays a crucial role in lipid, glucose, and energy metabolism. As a secondary bile acid, GDCA facilitates the digestion and absorption of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins. Its therapeutic potential has been explored in metabolic diseases, primarily attributed to its regulation of bile acid synthesis and metabolism, acting through the activation of the Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5 (TGR5). Research is burgeoning, particularly regarding its implications for metabolic dysfunction, suggesting GDCA may modify bile acid signaling to improve metabolic health. Despite the promising findings from systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical trials, additional longitudinal studies are warranted to clarify its full clinical ramifications and therapeutic applications.
Benefits
Research indicates that GDCA provides several crucial benefits. It significantly inhibits the de novo synthesis of primary bile acids, resulting in increased production of fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19), which in turn helps suppress liver bile acid synthesis. This modulation may prove beneficial in conditions like metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), where elevated GDCA levels correlate with disease severity. Moreover, GDCA administration is linked with elevated postprandial bile acid and FGF19 concentrations, suggesting improved metabolic health outcomes. Overall, evidence supports its use in managing metabolic health, particularly for populations with altered bile acid profiles, necessitating further investigation into GDCA's clinical efficacy and applications.
How it works
GDCA exerts its effects mainly by activating crucial receptors, FXR and TGR5. The activation of FXR leads to an increase in FGF19 production, which plays a vital role in suppressing hepatic bile acid synthesis, thus contributing to bile acid homeostasis. GDCA's effects extend to influencing lipid, glucose, and energy metabolism pathways across various body systems. Once absorbed in the intestines, GDCA is transported to the liver, where it modulates bile acid metabolism and its associated metabolic functions.
Side effects
While generally regarded as safe under controlled conditions, GDCA can present mild to moderate side effects. Common adverse effects—reported in over 5% of participants—include gastrointestinal issues, with studies showing up to 80% of regular capsule users and 50% of slow-release formulation users experiencing such symptoms. Infrequently, mild elevations in liver transaminases (1-5%) were noted in around 50% of participants. Serious adverse events are rare (<1%). Although specific drug interactions are not well documented, caution is advised for individuals on medications that influence bile acid metabolism or hepatic function. While no explicit contraindications exist, individuals with liver conditions should exercise caution. Additional safety assessments are recommended for vulnerable populations, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women and children.
Dosage
The optimal dosage of GDCA remains under investigation; however, current studies have used dosages around 10 mg/kg/day, which appear to be safe without severe adverse effects noted. The timing of administration is particularly important and is typically recommended postprandially to enhance bile acid absorption and boost FGF19 levels. Both regular and slow-release capsule forms have been studied, with slow-release variants potentially mimicking natural bile acid release. GDCA absorption can be affected by gut health and the presence of other bile acids, while adequate nutritional status may enhance its effectiveness.
FAQs
Is GDCA safe?
GDCA is generally safe but can lead to gastrointestinal issues and mild increases in liver enzyme levels. It's advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use.
How should GDCA be timed for administration?
GDCA is typically taken postprandially to maximize its effects on bile acids and FGF19 levels, aiding in digestion.
What results can I expect from GDCA supplementation?
GDCA may help inhibit primary bile acid synthesis and alter bile acid profiles, potentially benefitting conditions like metabolic disorders.
Are there misconceptions about GDCA's effects?
Some may think GDCA significantly influences lipid and glucose metabolism in healthy individuals; however, its effects appear minimal in such populations.
Research Sources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30524965 – A meta-analysis evaluating the role of GDCA in metabolic disorders, focusing on its effect on bile acid synthesis and associated metabolic markers, such as FGF19. The study affirms GDCA's influence on metabolic health outcomes.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30757382 – This systematic review discusses the biological mechanisms of GDCA and its interactions with bile acid receptors. The findings emphasize the need for further clinical studies to establish GDCA's therapeutic potential.
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1569904819300699 – Clinical trial results indicate that GDCA leads to significant changes in bile acid profiles and metabolic parameters in patients with MASLD, suggesting its utility as a therapeutic agent.