Bilirubin: translational perspectives.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Physiology
• Medical Research

Background:

• Bilirubin is the final product of heme catabolism.
• Recent decades reveal extensive bioactivity of bilirubin in humans.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize recent advances in bilirubin metabolism and its clinical implications.
• To discuss the beneficial biological potential and functions of bilirubin.
• To explore the pathophysiology of neonatal jaundice and phototherapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent decades' research on bilirubin.
• Analysis of studies on bilirubin metabolism, bioactivity, and clinical relevance.

Main Results:

• Mildly elevated serum bilirubin concentrations show beneficial effects, potentially preventing or ameliorating diseases.
• Bacterial bilirubin reductase in the gut impacts neonatal jaundice pathophysiology.
• Understanding of neonatal jaundice phototherapy pathophysiology has improved.

Conclusions:

• Bilirubin possesses significant beneficial biological potential with evolutionary and ontogenetic functions.
• Physiological neonatal jaundice may play a protective role.
• Further research into bilirubin metabolism and its clinical implications is warranted.