What does BCM mean in BRITISH MEDICINE

The bile canalicular membrane (BCM) is a thin layer of cells that lines the small bile ducts in the liver. It functions to regulate the transport of substances such as bile acids, electrolytes, and metabolites in and out of the liver. The BCM also helps protect the liver from foreign pathogens and toxins.

The BCM acts like a gatekeeper, controlling what substances can move between compartments within the liver. It has specialized transporter proteins embedded in its cell walls that recognize specific molecules and allow them to pass through while keeping out other substances or toxins. This allows for efficient transport of essential nutrients and helps to prevent cell damage caused by toxic compounds.

Abnormalities in the structure and/or function of BCM have been linked to numerous diseases, including primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), an autoimmune disorder resulting from destruction of the small bile ducts; cholestasis, whereby an imbalance of certain solutes cause a blockage of bile flow; drug-induced jaundice; progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis; Alagille syndrome; and primary sclerosing cholangitis, a chronic inflammatory disease of the intra- and extrahepatic ducts.

Changes in BCM functioning can result in jaundice, pale stools, dark urine, severe itching, abdominal pain or discomfort, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea/vomiting and loss of weight.

CDCA is a naturally occurring plant-derived steroid found primarily in beets that has been used to treat various disorders involving malfunctioning BCM. Studies suggest that CDCA can help regenerate damaged cells along with improving uptake and secretion processes within hepatocytes (liver cells). However, further research is needed on its long-term effects before it is widely accepted as a form of treatment.

Yes - excessive alcohol consumption has been shown to adversely affect both structure and function of the BCM over time leading to impairment in absorption/secretion processes within hepatocytes as well as increased levels of circulating toxins such as bilirubin. It can also lead to inflammation which further damages tissue.

Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants plays an important role maintaining healthy cells throughout your body including your liver cells which are integral components for proper functioning within your BCMs. Additionally avoiding processed foods high in added sugars which can increase fat accumulation within hepatocytes should be minimized when possible.

Certain herbs have been known to possess hepato-protective properties such as Milk Thistle which is said to reduce inflammation surrounding hepatocytes while providing antioxidative action on injury commonly experienced by those suffering from alcoholic hepatitis.