Study of Bilirubin Binding to Human Serum Albumin
Author Information
Author(s): Zunszain Patricia A., Ghuman Jamie, McDonagh Antony F., Curry Stephen
Primary Institution: Imperial College London
Hypothesis
Where does bilirubin bind on human serum albumin?
Conclusion
The study provides the first crystal structure of a natural bilirubin pigment bound to serum albumin, revealing its binding site in sub-domain IB.
Supporting Evidence
- The crystal structure was determined to 2.42 Å resolution.
- The binding site for bilirubin was identified in sub-domain IB of human serum albumin.
- Fusidic acid was shown to bind to the same pocket as bilirubin.
Takeaway
Bilirubin, a yellow pigment, binds to a specific part of a protein called human serum albumin, which helps transport it in the blood.
Methodology
The researchers co-crystallized bilirubin with human serum albumin and determined the crystal structure using X-ray diffraction.
Limitations
The study's findings may be influenced by the unexpected presence of the 4Z,15E isomer due to light exposure during experiments.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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