Bile acids and Barrett's oesophagus: a sine qua non or coincidence?

It is unknown what factors of the refluxate (acid and/or bile) induce BO and/or promote carcinogenesis, but there is evidence that secondary bile acids play a role. A better understanding of the molecular steps involved in the induction of BO, and the role of bile acids herein, may identify targets at which preventive therapies can be directed.