Perfusion studies were performed in healthy volunteers to test whether the secretory effect of conjugated bile acids, previously shown for the colon, was also present in the jejunum. A perfusion system with a proximal occlusive balloon (and continuous aspiration of duodenal secretions) was used; isotonic test solutions contained glycine-conjugated bile acids with or without lecithin. Fluid movement was measured by changes in the concentration of polyethylene glycol (PEG, mol wt 4,000). Conjugated dihydroxy bile acids inhibited electrolyte and fluid absorption and, at higher concentrations, evoked secretion of an isotonic fluid. Glucose absorption continued, despite fluid secretion, but its rate decreased. The secretory effects of bile acids were abolished by the addition of lecithin to the bile acid solutions. A trihydroxy bile acid (cholylglycine) had no effect on jejunal absorption. Small amounts (6-9%) of conjugated bile acids were absorbed in the jejunum; lecithin was well absorbed (72-90%). The results indicate that dihydroxy bile acids influence salt and water transport in the human jejunum but that this effect may be abolished when a polar lipid such as lecithin is present. We speculate that this effect of bile acids may modify fluid movement in the small intestine postprandially after fat absorption has occurred.