Biological properties and therapeutic potential of bilirubin.
Bilirubin was long considered a useless metabolite of heme catabolism, responsible for the clinical manifestation of jaundice, and potentially toxic in high doses, particularly in neonates. In the past two decades the potent biological properties of bilirubin, particularly as an antioxidant, have been recognised, and this has prompted a number of investigations into this molecule concerning its in vitro and in vivo properties. This review summarises that work, as well as more recent investigations into the potential therapeutic uses of bilirubin.
McGeary
Ross P
RP
The School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane Qld 4072, Australia. r.mcgeary@mailbox.uq.edu.au
Szyczew
Alexander J
AJ
Toth
Istvan
I
D000818:Animals; D000975:Antioxidants / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000378:metabolism / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001663:Bilirubin / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D008516:Medicine, Chinese Traditional; D015394:Molecular Structure
D000975:Antioxidants; D001663:Bilirubin