ABSTRACT
The etiology and progression of the lithogenic process is affected by a number of factors. It is well known that total caloric intake as well as intake of particular dietary components (proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals) can alter the lipid fraction of bile and lead to the formation of gallstones. Research regarding cholelithiasis must focus on factors which alter biliary cholesterol and bile acid levels, since the conversion of cholesterol to bile acid in the liver provides the primary metabolic route for cholesterol excretion. An increased incidence in gallstones in both humans and experimental animals occurs when bile contains higher relative concentrations of biliary cholesterol and lower concentrations of bile acids. The purpose of this review is to address the relationship between one particular component of the diet, protein, and alterations in serum and biliary concentrations which favor the formation of cholesterol gallstones.
