Premium
Steroid metabolism with intestinal microorganisms
Author(s) -
Groh Helmut,
Schade Karin,
HörholdSchubert Cläre
Publication year - 1993
Publication title -
journal of basic microbiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.58
H-Index - 54
eISSN - 1521-4028
pISSN - 0233-111X
DOI - 10.1002/jobm.3620330115
Subject(s) - enterohepatic circulation , microorganism , hormone , steroid , endocrine system , metabolism , anaerobic bacteria , biology , biochemistry , microbiology and biotechnology , chemistry , bacteria , genetics
As a result of the metabolic activities of numerous anaerobic microorganisms with sterols, bile acids and steroid hormones as substrates in connection with the enterohepatic circulation of these compounds, the intestine may be considered as an “endocrine” active site or organ. The review summarizes transformations of steroids by anaerobic intestinal bacteria, the physiological and supposed pathophysiological meaning thereof. The aim is to recommend further investigation in this field with respect to both the elucidation of the reactions and biological responses.