Which two compounds can bile acids be conjugated with to form bile salt?

Bile acids are synthesized in the liver and play a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of dietary fats. To enhance their solubility and functionality, bile acids are conjugated with specific amino acids to form bile salts. The primary amino acids involved in this conjugation process are glycine and taurine.

When bile acids are conjugated with glycine or taurine, the resulting bile salts have improved amphipathic properties. This means they are able to interact with both lipids and water, facilitating the emulsification of fats and aiding in their digestion and absorption in the intestines. Glycine contributes to forming taurocholic acid when combined with cholic acid, while taurine lends its amine group to effectively create sodium taurocholate or taurodeoxycholic acid, depending on the bile acid.

Thus, the correct pairing of compounds that bile acids can conjugate with to form bile salts is indeed glycine and taurine. This is an essential biochemical process, vital for maintaining effective lipid digestion and absorption in the body.