An eel’s glow could illuminate liver disease

Fluorescent protein binds to bilirubin, a compound the body must eliminate

Japanese freshwater eels (one shown) travel for miles during migration from the sea to rivers. A protein made by the eels glows when connected to bilirubin, an antioxidant. Together the two compounds may protect the eels' muscles from stress. 

Akiko Kumagai and Atsushi Miyawaki

An eel protein that shines green could enable a new test for liver problems and jaundice.