Therapeutic application and construction of bilirubin incorporated nanoparticles.

Bilirubin is a yellow-colored metabolite of heme degradation (a bile pigment), once believed to be toxic, but recently recognized as a powerful endogenous antioxidant of physiologic importance. During the past two decades, several studies have demonstrated the potential of bilirubin in theranostic applications. Here this paper summarizes the current state of the field, providing a detailed review of the published literature on the theranostic applications of bilirubin-conjugated nanoparticles and the basis and mechanisms underlying their efficacy. This review covers the analytical description of the construction of the nanoparticulate bilirubin system, primary mechanisms of therapeutic action, drug delivery, and imaging potential. It also lays out the possible translational future of bilirubin-conjugated nanoparticles in therapy and diagnosis.