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Enterohepatic Circulation

Meaning

Enterohepatic Circulation describes the biochemical recycling process where substances, primarily bile acids conjugated with hormones like estrogens or thyroid hormones, are secreted into the bile, pass into the small intestine, and are subsequently reabsorbed back into the portal circulation for return to the liver. This recycling loop significantly influences the systemic half-life and clearance rate of various endogenous compounds. It is a critical determinant of overall hormonal load management.