Ursodeoxycholic acid belongs to the bile acids, alcohols and derivatives, a subclass of steroids and steroid derivatives within the organic compounds. It has the chemical formula C24H40O4 and an average molecular weight of 392.57 g/mol. This compound is classified as a lipid and lipid-like molecule.
In industrial applications, ursodeoxycholic acid is utilized as a humectant, as well as a softener and conditioner. It is found in 19 recorded sources, including building and construction materials such as tents or canopies, and household cleaning and consumer products including cigar cigarettes, non electric simulated smoking devices, and other smoking requisites. It is also associated with food, food processing and cookware, specifically the processing of meats and the preparation of vinegar, wine, sparkling wine, and fermentation processes for beer. Additionally, it is found in electrical and electronic equipment, including antennas, amplifiers, discharge lamps, electrically stimulated smoking devices, fixed capacitors and their manufacture, and five other sources. In the realm of healthcare, pharmaceuticals and veterinary products, it is used for bile therapy. Recorded exposure routes for the compound include oral and dental routes.
Ursodeoxycholic acid interacts with four recorded protein targets. It acts as an activator, inhibitor, or partial agonist of Aldo-keto reductase family 1 member C2 (AKR1C2). Other protein targets include the bile acid receptor (NR1H4), biliverdin reductase A (BLVRA), and solute carrier family 23 member 2 (SLC23A2).
Belongs to the class of organic compounds known as dihydroxy bile acids, alcohols and derivatives. Dihydroxy bile acids, alcohols and derivatives are compounds containing or derived from a bile acid or alcohol, and which bears exactly two carboxylic acid groups.
