Liposome‐Bilirubin Interaction: A Novel Strategy to Eliminate Bilirubin from Systemic Circulation

Abstract

In the present study, we established the role of liposomes in removal of bilirubin from systemic circulation of the hyperbilirubinemic rats. Bilirubin has been demonstrated to possess inherent tendency to interact with liposomes through ionic as well as hydrophobic interactions. The size as well as lamellarity of the liposomes does not seem to affect their binding with bilirubin. However, the charge on the surface of liposomes plays an important role in bilirubin-liposome interaction, e.g., bilirubin binds more extensively with positively charged liposomes as compared to the neutral or negatively charged liposomes. The present study further demonstrates that liposomes were effective in reducing the increased plasma bilirubin level in hyperbilirubinemic model animals as well. The results of the study suggest that positively charged liposome-mediated selective homing of excess plasma bilirubin to the hepatocytes seems to offer an important strategy in management of hyperbilirubinemic conditions.

Molecular Physiology and Pathophysiology of Bilirubin Handling by the Blood, Liver, Intestine, and Brain in the Newborn

“…However, binding of the monovalent anion of bilirubin acid to membranes may be reversible (703). The finding that bilirubin binding to liposomes and RBCs is reversible is in line with this speculation, as are clinical and experimental observations showing that the milder signs of bilirubin influence on the brain may be reversed (456,508,701,703).…”

Bilirubin Removal by Polymeric Adsorbents for Hyperbilirubinemia Therapy

“…In vivo studies suggest that the administration of liposomes in hyperbilirubinemia rats helps in the clearance of plasma bilirubin from the systemic circulation. [ 123 ]…”

“…In vivo studies suggest that the administration of liposomes in hyperbilirubinemia rats helps in the clearance of plasma bilirubin from the systemic circulation. [123] In addition, a new generation of micro/mesoporous activated carbons (ACs) with greater mechanical strength, high specific surface area and large pore volume, have been developed for bilirubin removal, and porous synthetic polymer resins are used as the precursor material. [124] To improve the hemocompatibility of these ACs, biocompatible polymer coatings are used, such as dextran, [125] and polydopamine.…”