The formation in the gallbladder or bile ducts of gallstones (crystals usually composed of cholesterol and inorganic salts) afflicts millions of people. Predisposing factors for this excruciatingly painful disorder include obesity and infection of the gallbladder (cholecystitis). Because cholesterol is virtually insoluble in water, it is solubilized in bile by its incorporation into micelles composed of bile salts and phospholipids. Gallstones tend to form when cholesterol is secreted into bile in excessive quantities. Suggest a reason why an obese person is prone to gallstone formation. [Hint: HMG-CoA reductase activity is higher in obese individuals.]

Human Physiology: From Cells to Systems (MindTap Course List)
9th Edition
ISBN:9781285866932
Author:Lauralee Sherwood
Publisher:Lauralee Sherwood
Chapter16: The Digestive System
Section: Chapter Questions
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The formation in the gallbladder or bile ducts of gallstones (crystals usually composed of
cholesterol and inorganic salts) afflicts millions of people. Predisposing factors for this
excruciatingly painful disorder include obesity and infection of the gallbladder (cholecystitis).
Because cholesterol is virtually insoluble in water, it is solubilized in bile by its incorporation into
micelles composed of bile salts and phospholipids. Gallstones tend to form when cholesterol is
secreted into bile in excessive quantities. Suggest a reason why an obese person is prone to
gallstone formation. [Hint: HMG-CoA reductase activity is higher in obese individuals.]

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