Which statement is NOT supported by the colon data?

• A. ASBT protein expression differed between groups
• B. ASBT mRNA expression differed between groups
• C. Both ASBT protein and mRNA expressions were similar between groups
• D. There is evidence of overt bile acid malabsorption

Answer: (D)

Colon data about ASBT expression are used to see whether the amount of transporter protein or its mRNA in the colon differs between groups, which could reflect changes in how bile acids are handled in the colon or compensatory shifts in transport. The key point is that even if these colon measurements show differences in protein or mRNA, they do not by themselves prove that there is overt bile acid malabsorption. True malabsorption implies a functional deficit in bile acid reabsorption that would alter bile acid physiology—typically evidenced by elevated fecal bile acids or a reduced bile acid pool—data that come from systemic or ileal-focused assessments rather than colon ASBT expression alone. So, saying there is overt bile acid malabsorption is not supported by colon data by itself, even if ASBT protein or mRNA levels differ or remain similar.