Chenodeoxycholic Acid

Synonimy: 3α,7α-Dihydroxy-5β-cholan-24-oic acid, CDCA, Chenodiol, Chenic acid, 5β-Cholan-24-oic acid, 3α,7α-dihydroxy-, Gallodesoxycholic acid

Chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) has become a staple in the bile acid portfolio for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical manufacturers. Demand is driven by its established role in gallstone dissolution and its growing use as a precursor for ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and other bile acid derivatives. At the same time, CDCA is gaining traction in metabolic research, where it acts as a potent endogenous agonist of the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), influencing bile acid synthesis, lipid metabolism, and glucose homeostasis.

CDCA is a primary bile acid synthesized in the liver from cholesterol via the classical and alternative pathways. It is found in human bile alongside cholic acid, typically in a ratio of about 1:1, and is also present in the bile of other mammals. The compound is a white to off-white crystalline powder with a characteristic steroid structure, featuring hydroxyl groups at the 3α and 7α positions and a carboxyl side chain. While it occurs naturally, commercial CDCA is produced through semi-synthesis from cholic acid or by microbial biotransformation, ensuring consistent quality and supply.

LyvBio supplies chenodeoxycholic acid with a minimum assay of 98% by HPLC, meeting the stringent requirements of pharmaceutical intermediates and research applications. Our material is manufactured under cGMP conditions and is available with full regulatory documentation, making it suitable for use as an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) or as a key starting material in the production of UDCA and other bile acid-based therapeutics.

Product Overview & Composition

Chenodeoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring bile acid with the molecular formula C₂₄H₄₀O₄ and a molecular weight of 392.57 g/mol. It is structurally characterized by a steroid nucleus with hydroxyl groups at the 3α and 7α positions and a five-carbon side chain terminating in a carboxylic acid. This amphipathic structure underlies its physiological function in emulsifying fats and its utility in pharmaceutical formulations.

In terms of composition, CDCA is typically available as the free acid. It is practically insoluble in water but readily soluble in ethanol, methanol, and acetone. The compound is stable under normal storage conditions but should be protected from light and moisture to prevent degradation. Its purity is generally determined by HPLC, with pharmacopeial monographs (e.g., USP, EP) specifying limits for related substances and residual solvents.

Key Applications

• Gallstone dissolution: CDCA is indicated for the dissolution of cholesterol gallstones in patients who cannot undergo surgery. It works by reducing cholesterol saturation in bile, thereby promoting stone dissolution.
• Precursor for UDCA: CDCA serves as a key starting material in the synthesis of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), a widely prescribed bile acid for cholestatic liver diseases. The conversion involves epimerization of the 7α-hydroxyl group to 7β.
• Metabolic research: As an endogenous FXR agonist, CDCA is used in studies investigating bile acid signaling, lipid metabolism, and glucose homeostasis. It also serves as a reference standard in analytical methods.
• Pharmaceutical intermediate: CDCA is employed in the synthesis of various bile acid derivatives, including obeticholic acid (OCA), a semi-synthetic FXR agonist used in primary biliary cholangitis.
• Nutraceutical formulations: In some markets, CDCA is included in dietary supplements aimed at supporting liver health and fat digestion, although its use is subject to regulatory approval.

Quality & Standards

Packaging & Supply

• Opakowanie: 25 kg fiber drums with double polyethylene liners, or customized packaging upon request.
• MOQ: 1 kg for research quantities; 25 kg for commercial orders.
• Czas realizacji: 3–5 dni roboczych (towary dostępne w magazynie)
• Dokumentacja: COA, MSDS, TDS, and regulatory support (CEP, DMF) available upon request.

Zapytanie ofertowe

• LyvBio Sp. z o.o. — E-mail: info@lyvbio.com