New Treatments Against Jaundice Could Protect Newborns

New treatments against jaundice may help protect newborns and older patients from more of its severe affects, according to a recent study. 

Researchers from the University of Guelph show that liver enzyme projects cells can help prevent damage that commonly cause the condition.

According to lead researcher Daniel Kim, researchers found that a naturally occurring enzyme that breaks down bilirubin could aid in treatments. Called cytochrome P450 2A5, the enzyme is known to increase in people with liver ailments.

They found that the more bilirubin in the blood activates the gene to help the enzyme, which, in turn, removes bilirubin and prevents liver cells from dying, which they studied in various groups of lab mice.

However, further studies will determine safe and effective levels of the enzyme before the development can be used for treatment, according to Kirby.

"We need to fine-tune our ability to manipulate this enzyme and fully understand its role in bilirubin removal," he said. Kirby has long studied the enzyme's role in nicotine addiction in smokers.

Studies show that approximately two out of three newborns contract jaundice. When this happens, their skin yellows, along with other symptoms, and UV treatments don't always aid as a solution to the problem.

Researchers note that new discoveries for help are important to help those suffering.

The findings for the study are published in the journal Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology.