Gallensaft

Gallensaft, also referred to as Gallenflüssigkeit, is a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. In humans, bile consists of bile acids (bile salts), cholesterol, phospholipids, bilirubin, electrolytes and water. Its primary function is to emulsify fats in the small intestine, facilitating the action of pancreatic lipase and the digestion and absorption of fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins.

Production, storage and release are tightly regulated. Bile is continuously produced by hepatocytes and secreted into bile canaliculi, then travels through a network of bile ducts to the gallbladder, where water and other constituents are reabsorbed, concentrating the bile. After a meal, the hormone cholecystokinin stimulates gallbladder contraction and relaxation of the sphincter of Oddi, allowing bile to flow into the duodenum.

Composition and role of bile acids. Bile acids (bile salts) are derived from cholesterol and are conjugated with glycine or taurine to increase solubility; they form micelles that help digest and absorb fats. Other important components include bilirubin, a pigment from heme breakdown, as well as cholesterol and phospholipids, which contribute to the emulsification process and the stability of the bile.

Clinical relevance. Disruption of bile flow, such as obstruction of the bile ducts, can lead to jaundice and fat malabsorption. Gallstones, inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), and cholestasis are conditions associated with altered bile secretion or flow.

Terminology. The term Gallensaft is common in German-language texts; in broader medical usage, the fluid is generally referred to as bile.