Meaning
The process by which bile salts form aggregates to increase the solubility of hydrophobic substances facilitates the digestion of lipophilic compounds. During taurocholate micellar solubilization, molecules are incorporated into the hydrophobic core of the micelle. This mechanism is critical for the absorption of certain plastic additives that leach into the gut.
Scientists measure this process to understand the potential for systemic exposure to polymer migrants.
Micelle Formation
Bile salts spontaneously group together once they reach a specific concentration. Because taurocholate micellar solubilization depends on these structures, the presence of fats in the diet can enhance the effect.
Solubility Enhancement
Hydrophobic molecules that are normally insoluble in water become dispersed in the aqueous environment of the intestine. In a taurocholate micellar solubilization study, the partition coefficient between the polymer and the micelle is calculated. This value shows how easily a migrant leaves the plastic and enters the digestive fluid.
High levels of solubilization increase the amount of a chemical that reaches the intestinal wall. The addition of surfactants can further alter the capacity of the micelles.
Digestion Impact
Efficient solubilization of migrants allows them to be transported across the cell membrane. Results from taurocholate micellar solubilization experiments inform risk assessments for food contact materials. Stable polymers that resist this process minimize the risk of chemical uptake during a meal.
