Final answer:
Unconjugated bilirubin travels in the blood bound to albumin as part of the albumin-bilirubin complex. The liver takes up the bilirubin and excretes it, while leaving the albumin free in the plasma. Accumulation of unconjugated bilirubin can lead to hyperbilirubinemia and jaundice.
Step-by-step explanation:
Unconjugated bilirubin travels in the blood bound to albumin. It forms a complex with albumin called the albumin-bilirubin complex, which allows it to be transported through the blood. This complex enables the liver to take up only the bilirubin and leave the albumin free in the plasma. Once in the liver, the bilirubin is conjugated with glucuronic acid and eventually excreted. The accumulation of unconjugated bilirubin in the blood can lead to conditions such as hyperbilirubinemia and jaundice.