Moreover, in the high-fat mice group, there was an increase in Firmicutes (involved in dehydroxylation of secondary bile acids) and of microbiota-produced secondary bile acids, which may activate vitamin D receptors, leading to the upregulation of genes involved in cell apoptosis, differentiation and barrier function, thus amplifying the protective effect against inflammation and CRC. The gene discussed is VDR; the disease is colorectal carcinoma.