BIL scavenges NO

Bilirubin (BIL) can serve as an endogenous scavenger of both nitric oxide (NO) and reactive nitrogen species, thus widening the protective role of bilirubin to other reactive species originating within the cellular environment. This ability is quite important in explaining some of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the cytoprotective function of the bile pigment against NO-related pathologies such as atherosclerosis, liver disease and neurodegenerative disorders (Mancuso et al, 2006; Kaur et al, 2003; Mancuso et al, 2003).

胆红素（BIL）可作为一氧化氮（NO）和活性氮种的内源性清除剂，从而扩大胆红素在保护细胞免受一氧化氮相关病理（如动脉粥样硬化、肝脏疾病和神经退行性疾病）侵害的防护作用。这一能力对于阐释胆色素在细胞保护功能中涉及的某些病理生理机制具有重要意义（Mancuso 等人，2006年；Kaur 等人，2003年；Mancuso 等人，2003年）。