In Cellulo Mapping of Subcellular Localized Bilirubin

ACS Chem Biol. 2016 Aug 19;11(8):2177-85. doi: 10.1021/acschembio.6b00017. Epub 2016 Jun 8.

Abstract

Bilirubin (BR) is a de novo synthesized metabolite of human cells. However, subcellular localization of BR in the different organelles of human cells has been largely unknown. Here, utilizing UnaG as a genetically encoded fluorescent BR sensor, we report the existence of relatively BR-enriched and BR-depleted microspaces in various cellular organelles of live cells. Our studies indicate that (i) the cytoplasmic facing membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the nucleus are relatively BR-enriched spaces and (ii) mitochondrial intermembrane space and the ER lumen are relatively BR-depleted spaces. Thus, we demonstrate a relationship between such asymmetrical BR distribution in the ER membrane and the BR metabolic pathway. Furthermore, our results suggest plausible BR-transport and BR-regulating machineries in other cellular compartments, including the nucleus and mitochondria.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bilirubin / metabolism
  • Cell Line
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum / metabolism
  • Fluorescent Dyes
  • Humans
  • Subcellular Fractions / metabolism*

Substances

  • Fluorescent Dyes
  • Bilirubin