TUDCA

What is TUDCA?

TUDCA, or Tauroursodeoxycholic acid, is a bile acid derivative that is naturally produced in small amounts in the human body. It is a water-soluble bile acid conjugate that is primarily found in the bile of bears and in trace amounts in humans. TUDCA has gained attention for its potential therapeutic properties and is commonly used as a dietary supplement.

What are the Benefits of TUDCA?

Liver Health: TUDCA is known for its hepatoprotective properties, supporting liver function and promoting liver cell health. It is used in various liver conditions, including cholestasis and certain liver diseases.

Bile Flow: It helps improve bile flow and aids in the digestion and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins.

Cholestasis: TUDCA is used to treat cholestatic liver diseases, where bile flow is impaired, leading to liver damage. It helps reduce bile acids' toxic effects on liver cells.

Neuroprotective Effects: TUDCA has shown promise in protecting nerve cells and supporting neurological function, potentially benefiting conditions like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

Anti-inflammatory Properties: It exhibits anti-inflammatory effects that may help reduce inflammation in various tissues and organs.

What Research is on TUDCA?

Research on TUDCA focuses on its therapeutic potential and mechanisms of action:

  1. Liver Diseases: Clinical studies and animal research suggest that TUDCA can improve liver function and reduce liver damage in conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cirrhosis.
  2. Neuroprotection: Studies in animal models and some clinical trials indicate that TUDCA may protect nerve cells from damage and improve outcomes in neurodegenerative disorders.
  3. Metabolic Disorders: Research suggests that TUDCA may have beneficial effects on metabolic disorders, including diabetes and obesity, by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation.
  4. Gut Health: TUDCA may help maintain gut barrier function and modulate gut microbiota, contributing to overall digestive health and immune function.

What is the Mechanism of Action for TUDCA?

Bile Acid Regulation: TUDCA helps regulate bile acid metabolism and excretion, reducing toxic bile acid buildup in the liver and improving bile flow.

Cellular Protection: It protects cells from apoptosis (programmed cell death) and oxidative stress, enhancing cell survival and function.

Anti-inflammatory Effects: TUDCA inhibits pro-inflammatory pathways and cytokines, reducing inflammation in liver cells, nerve cells, and other tissues.

Mitochondrial Function: TUDCA supports mitochondrial function, enhancing energy production and reducing oxidative stress in cells.

What is the Typical Dosage of TUDCA?

Typical dosages of TUDCA in dietary supplements range from 250 mg to 1000 mg per day, depending on the intended use and individual health conditions. Dosage recommendations may vary based on the severity of liver dysfunction or other medical considerations.

What Foods are Rich in TUDCA?

TUDCA is primarily consumed as a dietary supplement due to its support for liver, brain, and cellular health. It is not naturally abundant in food sources and is typically obtained through supplementation.

 

Freitas IN, da Silva JA Jr, de Oliveira KM, Lourençoni Alves B, Dos Reis Araújo T, Camporez JP, Carneiro EM, Davel AP. Insights by which TUDCA is a potential therapy against adiposity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2023 Feb 21;14:1090039. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1090039. PMID: 36896173; PMCID: PMC9989466.

Zangerolamo L, Carvalho M, Barssotti L, Soares GM, Marmentini C, Boschero AC, Barbosa HCL. The bile acid TUDCA reduces age-related hyperinsulinemia in mice. Sci Rep. 2022 Dec 23;12(1):22273. doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-26915-3. PMID: 36564463; PMCID: PMC9789133.