Biliverdin
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3D model (Jmol)
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| ChEBI | |
| ChemSpider | |
| ECHA InfoCard | 100.003.675 |
| MeSH | Biliverdin |
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PubChem CID
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| Properties | |
| C33H34N4O6 | |
| Molar mass | 582.646 |
| Melting point | > 300 °C |
| Hazards | |
| Main hazards | Irritant |
| Safety data sheet | Sigma-Aldrich |
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Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
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 (what is   ?) |
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| Infobox references | |
Biliverdin is a green tetrapyrrolic bile pigment, and is a product of heme catabolism. It is the pigment responsible for a greenish color sometimes seen in bruises.
Biliverdin results from the breakdown of the heme moiety of hemoglobin in erythrocytes. Macrophages break down senescent erythrocytes and break the heme down into biliverdin, which normally rapidly reduces to free bilirubin. Biliverdin is seen briefly in some bruises as a green color. In bruises, its breakdown into bilirubin leads to a yellowish color.
Biliverdin has been found in excess in the blood of humans suffering from hepatic diseases. Jaundice is caused by the accumulation of biliverdin or bilirubin (or both) in the circulatory system and tissues. Jaundiced skin and sclera (whites of the eyes) are characteristic of liver failure.
While typically regarded as a mere waste product of heme breakdown, evidence that suggests that biliverdin — and other bile pigments — has a physiological role in humans has been mounting.
Bile pigments such as biliverdin possess significant anti-mutagenic and antioxidant properties and therefore may fulfil a useful physiological function. Biliverdin and bilirubin have been shown to be potent scavengers of peroxyl radicals. They have also been shown to inhibit the effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, heterocyclic amines, and oxidants — all of which are mutagens. Some studies have found that people with higher concentration levels of bilirubin and biliverdin in their bodies have a lower frequency of cancer and cardiovascular disease. It has been suggested that biliverdin — as well as many other tetrapyrrolic pigments — may function as an HIV-1 protease inhibitor as well as having beneficial effects in asthma though further research is needed to confirm these results. There are currently no practical implications for using biliverdin in the treatment of any disease.
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Wikipedia