Receptor-mediated therapeutic potential of lumirubin and
6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole in phototherapy of neonatal
hyperbilirubinaemia
Abstract
Background and purpose: Bilirubin toxicity in newborn infants leading to
kernicterus disturbs immune and neuronal functions through
proinflammatory cytokines and a hyperglutamatergic state. Tryptophan
metabolism along the kynurenine pathway may underpin both features.
Phototherapy of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (NNH) converts bilirubin to
harmless products, mainly lumirubin. Lumirubin possesses protective
properties, though its precise mechanism(s) of action is less
understood. The tryptophan metabolite and photooxidation product
6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ) may also be formed during NNH
phototherapy. Experimental approach: We have explored the basis of
potential mechanisms of lumirubin and FICZ actions by their molecular
docking to the following receptors: the aryl hydrocarbon (AhR), NMDA,
kainate and GABA receptors. We compared their docking to the AhR with
those of bilirubin and biliverdin and the potent AhR agonists FICZ,
indirubin and 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin and their docking to
the other receptors with those of kynurenic (KA) and quinolinic (QA)
acids. Key results: lumirubin and FICZ dock very strongly to the AhR,
whereas biliverdin and bilirubin do not. Both lumirubin and FICZ also
dock strongly to the NMDA and GABA receptors, as do KA and QA.
Conclusions and implications: AhR activation by lumirubin may form the
basis of NNH phototherapy. FICZ is also likely to play a role in NNH
phototherapy. Interaction of lumirubin and FICZ with glutamate and GABA
receptors may underpin antagonism of the excitotoxicity of kernicterus.
Development of lumirubin- and FICZ-based pharmaceuticals may advance NNH
therapy. Interaction of KA and QA with GABA receptors requires
investigation at the pharmacological and behavioural levels.