The substance mimicking ox bile, often utilized in laboratory settings and certain industrial processes, is a complex mixture primarily composed of cholic acid salts, deoxycholic acid salts, and chenodeoxycholic acid salts. These compounds, manufactured through chemical synthesis, mirror the composition of natural bovine or ovine bile. Additional components, such as specific buffers and preservatives, are sometimes included to maintain stability and solubility in various applications.
Its significance lies in providing a standardized and readily available alternative to naturally derived animal bile. This synthesized version allows for greater control over the experimental parameters in scientific research, ensuring consistent results across different studies. Furthermore, it alleviates the reliance on animal by-products, addressing ethical concerns and mitigating potential variations in composition inherent in biological sources. Historically, its development marked a step forward in standardizing biochemical assays and industrial processes requiring emulsification or solubilization of fats and oils.