Q. What is the primary role of biliverdin in the human body?
Answer: Contributing to the greenish color of bruises
Notes: Biliverdin is a green pigment formed during the breakdown of heme, a component of hemoglobin in red blood cells. It is primarily responsible for the greenish color seen in bruises as it is produced when hemoglobin is degraded. Interestingly, in some animals, such as dogs, biliverdin is found in the placenta and is known as uteroverdine, highlighting its varied biological significance.