Article

The hypolipidaemic effects of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) supplementation in a Cretan population: A prospective study

Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture

February 2014
94(3)

DOI:10.1002/jsfa.6261

Source
PubMed

Authors:

Ioannis Starakis

Πανεπιστημιακό Γενικό Νοσοκομείο Πατρών

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BACKGROUND Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) is a filamentous cyanobacterium used as a food supplement. The objective of the study was to determine the lipid-lowering effects of Spirulina in Cretan Greek dyslipidaemic patients, and to document its effectiveness as a possible alternative treatment for dyslipidaemia. Fifty-two adultCretan outpatients (32 men, 20 women), median age 47 (range, 37-61) years, with recently diagnosed dyslipidaemia, consumed orally 1 g Spirulina (Greek production) per day for 12 weeks. The full lipid profile was measured in fasting blood samples at the beginning and end of the study period. Anthropometric measurements including systolic and diastolic blood pressure, height, weight and body mass index were also recorded. RESULTSAt the end of the 3-month intervention period the mean levels of triglycerides, low density lipoprotein-cholesterol, total cholesterol, non-high density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels, and the ratio of total cholesterol to high-density lipoproteincholesterol were significantly decreased: 16.3% (P < 0.0001), 10.1% (P < 0.0001), 8.9% (P < 0.0001), 10.8% (P < 0.0001) and 11.5% (P = 0.0006) respectively, whereas the mean high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels were not significantly increased (3.5%). Blood pressure, weight and body mass index remained almost unchanged. CONCLUSIONS Spirulina supplementation at a dose of 1 g daily has powerful hypolipidaemic effects, especially on the triglyceride concentration in dyslipidaemic Cretan outpatients. (c) 2013 Society of Chemical Industry

Antihypertensive and antihyperlipemic of spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) sauce on patients with hypertension: A randomized triple‐blind placebo‐controlled clinical trial

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Full-text available

Sep 2021

Systemic arterial hypertension is an independent risk factor for coronary heart disease, stroke, heart failure, and chronic kidney diseases. Spirulina is microalgae with nutritious ingredients and has potential attenuating effects on chronic diseases including hypertension. Spirulina can be added to food products in order to develop functional foods. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of 8‐week consumption of a salad dressing containing 2 g of spirulina platensis powder versus a placebo dressing on patients with hypertension. In this triple‐blind randomized clinical trial, 48 patients with hypertension were enrolled to receive daily either spirulina‐fortified dressing or placebo for 2 months. A total of 41 patients completed this study. We observed that the consumption of spirulina dressing significantly reduced systolic blood pressure (p = .02), diastolic blood pressure (p = .03), serum triglyceride (p = .01), total cholesterol, and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, compared to nonsignificant changes in the placebo group. Significant changes in TAC and hs‐CRP levels were observed in none of the groups. According to our findings, spirulina‐fortified dressing as a functional food can be used a supportive treatment for patients with hypertension along with standard antihypertensive drugs. However, further investigations are required for a more comprehensive conclusion.

The effect of Spirulina sauce, as a functional food, on cardiometabolic risk factors, oxidative stress biomarkers, glycemic profile, and liver enzymes in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients: A randomized double‐blinded clinical trial

Article

Full-text available

Jun 2021

Objective This study sought to investigate the effect of Spirulina on cardiometabolic risk factors, oxidative stress biomarkers, glycemic profile, and liver enzymes in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients. Methods This randomized, double-blind clinical trial was performed on 46 NAFLD patients. Subjects were allocated to consume either Spirulina sauce or placebo, each 20 g/day for 8 weeks. Fatty liver grade, liver enzymes, anthropometric parameters, blood pressure, and serum lipids, glucose, insulin, malondialdehyde, and antioxidant capacity were assessed pre- and postintervention. Results Fatty liver grade was significantly different between the two groups. A significant change for ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) was seen between the two groups (p = .03 and .02, respectively), while ALP (alkaline phosphatase) serum levels were not significantly different within or between groups. Pertaining to glycemic profile, all variables, except HOMA-IR, were not significantly different within or between groups. Finally, statistically significant changes were seen in both MDA (malondialdehyde) and TAC (total antioxidant capacity) among the groups (p = .04 and <.001, respectively). Conclusions Spirulina may improve fatty liver grade by modifying liver enzymes, oxidative stress, and some lipid profiles; however, there was effect of Spirulina on anthropometric characteristics and blood pressure.

Effects of Spirulina supplementation in patients with ulcerative colitis: a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2024

Aim We conducted a randomized placebo-controlled trial to assess the efficacy of Spirulina (SP) supplementation on disease activity, health-related quality of life, antioxidant status, and serum pentraxin 3 (PTX-3) levels in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Methods Eighty patients with UC were randomly assigned to consume either 1 g/day (two 500 mg capsules/day) of SP (n = 40) or control (n = 40) for 8 weeks. Dietary intakes, physical activity, disease activity, health-related quality of life, antioxidant status, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and serum PTX-3 levels were assessed and compared between groups at baseline and post-intervention. Results Seventy-three patients (91.3%) completed the trial. We observed increases in serum total antioxidant capacity levels in the SP supplementation group compared to the control group after 8 weeks of intervention (p ≤ 0.001). A within-group comparison indicated a trend towards a higher health-related quality of life score after 8 weeks of taking two different supplements, SP (p < 0.001) and PL (p = 0.012), respectively. However, there were no significant changes in participant’s disease activity score in response to SP administration (p > 0.05). Similarly, changes in ESR and PTX-3 levels were comparable between groups post-intervention (p > 0.05). Conclusions SP improved antioxidant capacity status and health-related quality of life in patients with UC. Our findings suggest that SP supplementation may be effective as an adjuvant treatment for managing patients with UC. Larger trials with longer interventions periods are required to confirm our findings.

The Contribution of Spirulina Platensis Supplementation on COVID-19 Prevention and Hospitalization

Article

Full-text available

May 2022

Background & Aims: Spirulina is a filamentous cyanobacterium known for its high nutritional value and therapeutic properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of Spirulina supplementation on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) prevention and hospitalization. Methods: We studied the state of health among 186 (median age: 47, range: 30-60 years) Greek individuals, non-vaccinated against the COVID-19, for 6 months. Among these, 102 unvaccinated individuals received orally 6 g Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) daily for 6 months. Anthropometric characteristics (height, weight, body mass index / BMI), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, complete blood count and biochemical assessments, were recorded and measured before Spirulina supplementation. Results: Among the 102 unvaccinated individuals who received Spirulina, only 14 (13.7%) contracted SARS-CoV2 (confirmed Delta variant) with mild symptoms and 2 (1.9%) needed hospitalization because of acute viral gastroenteritis. In contrast, among the 84 unvaccinated individuals who did not receive Spirulina, 62 (73.8%) contracted SARS-CoV2 (confirmed Delta variant) with mild symptoms and 17 (20.2%) needed hospitalization. None of the hospitalized patients died. Conclusions: Spirulina supplementation at a dose of 6 g daily can contribute to the war against SARS-CoV2, preventing COVID-19 and reducing the need for hospitalization.

Evaluation of Lab Scale Cultivation of Spirulina Using Different Substrates and its Nutritional Analysis

Article

Sep 2024

Spirulina platensis as a super prebiotic to enhance the antibacterial effect of Lactobacillus casei

Article

Aug 2024
S AFR J BOT

Microalgae are diminutive unicellular magnificent creatures that exist in the microscopic form. Within this classification, two notable subtypes, namely Spirulina platensis and Chlorella vulgaris, have garnered significant attention. S. platensis is mostly known for its therapeutic benefits due to proteins, vitamins, essential amino acids, minerals, and essential fatty acids abundance. The subsequent work aimed to investigate the prebiotic effect of S. platensis enhancing Lactobacillus casei microbiome growth rate and antibacterial effect. Different concentrations of S. platensis were prepared (0, 0.5, 5, and 50 mg/mL) then co-cultured with L. casei. Live probiotic enumeration, molecular characterization and scanning electron microscopy studies were performed. Data revealed that 5 mg/mL of S. platensis significantly enhanced the probiotic live count and consequently the antibacterial activity. The antibacterial and antibiofilm effects of L. casei/S. platensis mixture showed complete inhibition to the growth of bacterial cells after 4-and 8-h incubation with Staphylococcus epidermidis 12228 and Escherichia coli 25922, respectively. Moreover, minimal biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) value of 16 mg/mL was recorded for L. casei/S. platensis mixture

Commentary: Effect of high-dose Spirulina supplementation on hospitalized adults with COVID-19: a randomized controlled trial

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Aug 2024

Nutraceutical and Dietary Measures with Potential for Preventing/Controlling Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Its Complications

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Jul 2024

Nutraceutical Features of the Phycobiliprotein C-Phycocyanin: Evidence from Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina)

Article

Full-text available

Jun 2024

Arthrospira platensis, commonly known as Spirulina, is a photosynthetic filamentous cyanobacterium (blue–green microalga) that has been utilized as a food source since ancient times. More recently, it has gained significant popularity as a dietary supplement due to its rich content of micro- and macro-nutrients. Of particular interest is a water soluble phycobiliprotein derived from Spirulina known as phycocyanin C (C-PC), which stands out as the most abundant protein in this cyanobacterium. C-PC is a fluorescent protein, with its chromophore represented by the tetrapyrrole molecule phycocyanobilin B (PCB-B). While C-PC is commonly employed in food for its coloring properties, it also serves as the molecular basis for numerous nutraceutical features associated with Spirulina. Indeed, the comprehensive C-PC, and to some extent, the isolated PCB-B, has been linked to various health-promoting effects. These benefits encompass conditions triggered by oxidative stress, inflammation, and other pathological conditions. The present review focuses on the bio-pharmacological properties of these molecules, positioning them as promising agents for potential new applications in the expanding nutraceutical market.

Spirulina Unveiled: A Comprehensive Review on Biotechnological Innovations, Nutritional Proficiency, and Clinical Implications

Article

May 2024
CURR PHARM BIOTECHNO

This comprehensive review of Spirulina encompasses biotechnology, phycocyanin production, and purification. Bioactive compounds and vital nutrients are investigated during the study. The literature examines the potential therapeutic advantages and clinical applications of Spirulina. This analysis assesses Spirulina consumption and its associated health risks. The current review offers a comprehensive synthesis of the therapeutic applications as well as technologies utilized for the extraction and purification of phycocyanin. Moreover, this discourse delves into the examination of various advantageous techniques for extracting and purifying phycocyanin, encompassing physical, chemical, and enzymatic methods. The data derived from a multitude of studies strongly indicate the potential therapeutic applications of phycocyanin, encompassing its notable attributes as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory agent, anticancer agent, antiviral agent, antimicrobial agent, antiallergic agent, anti-obesity agent, antihypertensive agent, and an immunological agent.

Beneficial Effects of Spirulina Supplementation in the Management of Cardiovascular Diseases

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2024

In recent decades, as a result of rising mortality rates due to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), there has been a growing urgency to find alternative approaches to conventional pharmaceutical treatment to prevent the onset of chronic diseases. Arthrospira platensis, commonly known as Spirulina, is a blue-green cyanobacterium, classified as a “superfood”, used worldwide as a nutraceutical food supplement due to its remarkable nutritional value, lack of toxicity, and therapeutic effects. Several scientific studies have evaluated the cardioprotective role of Spirulina. This article presents a comprehensive review of the therapeutic benefits of Spirulina in improving cardio- and cerebrovascular health. It focuses on the latest experimental and clinical findings to evaluate its antihypertensive, antidiabetic, and antihyperlipidemic properties. The objective is to highlight its potential in preventing and managing risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Chromatographic Analyses of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) and Mechanism of Its Protective Effects against Experimental Obesity and Hepatic Steatosis in Rats

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2023

Background and Objectives: Obesity is currently a major health problem due to fatty acid accumulation and excess intake of energy, which leads to an increase in oxidative stress, particularly in the liver. The main goal of this study is to evaluate the protective effects of spirulina (SP) against cafeteria diet (CD)-induced obesity, oxidative stress, and lipotoxicity in rats. Materials and Methods: The rats were divided into four groups and received daily treatments for eight weeks as follows: control group fed a standard diet (SD 360 g/d); cafeteria diet group (CD 360 g/d); spirulina group (SP 500 mg/kg); and CD + SP group (500 mg/kg, b.w., p.o.) according to body weight (b.w.) per oral (p.o.). Results: Our results show that treatment with a CD increased the weights of the body, liver, and abdominal fat. Additionally, severe hepatic alteration, disturbances in the metabolic parameters of serum, and lipotoxicity associated with oxidative stress in response to the CD-induced obesity were observed. However, SP treatment significantly reduced the liver alteration of CD feed and lipid profile disorder associated with obesity. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that spirulina has a marked potential therapeutic effect against obesity and mitigates disturbances in liver function parameters, histological alterations, and oxidative stress status.

The mechanism of action of Spirulina as antidiabetic: a narrative review

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2023

Spirulina happens to be a special type of blue-green algae that originally emerged 3.5 billion years ago and was used as a source of nutrition. Spirulina gets its name from the filaments’ spiral or helical structure, but its true name is taxonomically Genus Arthrospira which encompasses several species. The most common species are S. fusiformis, S. maxima, and S. platensis. It is rich in various nutrients and chemical components including protein, carbohydrates, lipids, vitamins, minerals, pigments, chlorophyll, and enzymes. Spirulina’s active molecules and rich nutrients make it have several pharmacological activities and uses including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, immune system booster, anticancer, antiviral activity, and neuroprotective properties. It is also utilized as a nutritional supplement and for weight loss. Moreover, several studies confirm that Spirulina improves insulin sensitivity and reduces blood glucose levels in rat models as well as diabetic patients. The reason behind this unique behavior could be credited to the presence of several active components in it, but the action’s fundamental mechanism is still a matter of debate. Several studies have suggested different mechanisms including anti-inflammatory activity, increased insulin sensitivity, inhibition of gluconeogenesis, antioxidant activity, modulating gut microbiota composition, improved glucose homeostasis, and insulin receptor activation. Therefore, it became clear that Spirulina is a mine of active substances used as a nutritional supplement and reduces blood glucose levels or used in conjunction with other treatments to tackle type 2 diabetes. Further exploration is required to fully explain its effects on human physiology and determine optimal dosages for treatment.

Spirulina: Ethnic Food and Potential Health Applications

Chapter

Oct 2023

Human race has been using plants and cyanobacteria for thousands of years for various purposes like food, feed, and medicines. One of them is Spirulina, a powdered form of multicellular organism’s biomass belonging to the family of cyanobacteria, which is used as food in many countries since centuries. The organisms required to produce spirulina can be grown easily on a large scale and bioactive compounds can be extracted and purified without much difficulty. The two species of this organism, Spirulina platensis and Spirulina maxima, are well known for various nutritional and therapeutic applications. The chemical composition of Spirulina has been described in literature and it mainly consists of high protein content (50–70%), carbohydrate (10–20%), and lipids (5–10%). It is also rich in essential minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and unsaturated fatty acids. The presence of these constituents makes this organism suitable for various health benefits like antioxidant, antiobesity, anticancer, antidiabetic, etc. This has been also declared as Generally Recognized as Safe for human consumption by Food and Drug Administration. This chapter discusses the historical importance and health benefits of Spirulina.

Development and Organoleptic Evaluation of Iron Rich Pancake Premix Using Spirulina and Super Flours

Article

Full-text available

Jun 2023

Since ancient times, poor nutrition has been the primary culprit of iron deficiency, especially in the school going adolescent girls. There may be a number of factors that contribute to this. The production of affordable, wholesome, and practical foods is a challenge for the food industry. Spirulina platensis, a microscopic and filamentous cyanobacterium is a blue-green algae that is considered to be one of the ancient life forms on Earth. To increase the nutritive value and to provide other vital nutrients, best wholesome cereals must be chosen over or in combination with refined flour. Here, quinoas, soy flour and amaranth come in the picture. The preparation of pancake premix and the final product was done in the department of food and nutrition, school of home sciences , BBAU Lucknow in the duration of nine months from September 2023 to May 2023. The assessment was successful and yielded genuine beneficial outcomes. The spirulina pan cakes excel in terms of flavour, aroma, and mouth feel. The panellists found the pancake's green tint to be somewhat objectionable.

A Review of the Health-Promoting Properties of Spirulina with a Focus on athletes' Performance and Recovery

Article

May 2023

Spirulina species are photosynthetic and filamentous bacteria, commonly called 'blue-green microalgae'. Spirulina has a high nutrient content. It contains 60-70% protein with all essential amino acids present, and is rich in several vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds. Spirulina is also rich in essential fatty acids, and antioxidants. This rich nutritional content provides to Spirulina several health benefits including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulation, and insulin-sensitizing properties as well as positive effects in various diseases which could be also interesting for athletes. This paper mainly aims to review the interest and effects of Spirulina supplementation in athletes at rest, and in relation to exercise/training. Spirulina's biochemical composition, health properties/effects in humans, and effects in athletes including nutritional status, body composition, physical performance and intense exercise-related disorders were discussed in this review. Literature data showed that Spirulina seems to have positive effects on body composition especially in overweight and obese subjects which could not be the case in other pathologies and athletes. Spirulina appears to be also effective in improving aerobic fitness especially in untrained and moderately trained subjects. Results reported in the literature suggest that Spirulina may improve strength and power performance despite the minor or no significant effects in highly trained subjects. Most studies have shown that Spirulina improves antioxidant status, prevents and accelerates the recovery of exercise-induced lipid peroxidation, muscle damage and inflammation in trained and untrained subjects. Taken together, the results from these studies are encouraging and may demonstrate the potential benefits of Spirulina supplementation in athletes despite methodological differences.

Water compatibility of M’sila region (South- East Algeria) for cultivation of Spirulina & evaluation of methods of extraction of Phycocyanin and investigation of stability by β-Cyclodextrin

Article

Full-text available

Aug 2022

Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) is a microalga that has existed for more than three billion years. It belongs to the family of cyanobacteria. It is extraordinary, rich in nutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, vitamins, and minerals. In addition, Spirulina is rich in phycocyanin, a blue protein pigment. It can be used as a dye in food, pharmacology, and cosmetics. Our work focused first on the compatibility of the waters of M’sila region (southeast Algeria) for the cultivation of Arthrospira platensis. Then, we evaluated several methods of extracting phycocyanin to be able to determine the optimal method in terms of yield. We have succeeded in developing a new extraction method coupled with maceration in a glycerol-water mixture with a molar ratio (8/2) assisted by ultrasound with a yield of 52.93 mg/g. The excellent results obtained may be due to the salinity of the waters of the region, to the used nutrient culture medium and/or the climate change of the region. We have formed an inclusion complex between phycocyanin and β-Cyclodextrin to keep it and make it more stable. The encouraging results allow Algeria to gain a foothold on the world market as a producer of blue goldSpirulina (Arthrospira platensis) is a microalga that has existed for more than three billion years. It belongs to the family of cyanobacteria. It is extraordinary, rich in nutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, vitamins, and minerals. In addition, Spirulina is rich in phycocyanin, a blue protein pigment. It can be used as a dye in food, pharmacology, and cosmetics. Our work focused first on the compatibility of the waters of M’sila region (southeast Algeria) for the cultivation of Arthrospira platensis. Then, we evaluated several methods of extracting phycocyanin to be able to determine the optimal method in terms of yield. We have succeeded in developing a new extraction method coupled with maceration in a glycerol-water mixture with a molar ratio (8/2) assisted by ultrasound with a yield of 52.93 mg/g. The excellent results obtained may be due to the salinity of the waters of the region, to the used nutrient culture medium and/or the climate change of the region. We have formed an inclusion complex between phycocyanin and β-Cyclodextrin to keep it and make it more stable. The encouraging results allow Algeria to gain a foothold on the world market as a producer of blue gold

Valorization of Microalgal Biomass and Wastewater Treatment

Book

Dec 2022

Valorization of Microalgal Biomass and Wastewater Treatment provides tools, techniques, data and case studies to demonstrate the use of algal biomass in the production of valuable products like biofuels, food and fertilizers, etc. Valorization has several advantages over conventional bioremediation processes as it helps reduce the costs of bioprocesses. Examples of several successfully commercialized technologies are provided throughout the book, giving insights into developing potential processes for valorization of different biomasses. Wastewater treatment by microalgae generates the biomass, which could be utilized for developing various other products, such as fertilizers and biofuels. This book will equip researchers and policymakers in the energy sector with the scientific methodology and metrics needed to develop strategies for a viable transition in the energy sector. It will be a key resource for students, researchers and practitioners seeking to deepen their knowledge on energy planning, wastewater treatment and current and future trends.

Combination of Spirulina Platensis, Ganoderma Lucidum and Moringa Oleifera Improves Cardiac Functions and Reduces Pro-Inflammatory Biomarkers in Preclinical Models of Short-Term Doxorubicin-Mediated Cardiotoxicity: New Frontiers in Cardioncology?

Article

Full-text available

Nov 2022

Anthracyclines are essential adjuvant therapies for a variety of cancers, particularly breast, gastric and esophageal cancers. Whilst prolonging cancer-related survival, these agents can induce drug-related cardiotoxicity. Spirulina, Reishi (Ganoderma Lucidum) and Moringa are three nutraceuticals with anti-inflammatory effects that are currently used in cancer patients as complementary and alternative medicines to improve quality of life and fatigue. We hypothesize that the nutraceutical combination of Spirulina, Reishi and Moringa (Singo) could reduce inflammation and cardiotoxicity induced by anthracyclines. Female C57Bl/6 mice were untreated (Sham, n = 6) or treated for 7 days with short-term doxorubicin (DOXO, n = 6) or Singo (Singo, n = 6), or pre-treated with Singo for 3 days and associated with DOXO for remaining 7 days (DOXO–Singo, n = 6). The ejection fraction and radial and longitudinal strain were analyzed through transthoracic echocardiography (Vevo 2100, Fujifilm). The myocardial expressions of NLRP3, DAMPs (galectin-3 and calgranulin S100) and 13 cytokines were quantified through selective mouse ELISA methods. Myocardial fibrosis, necrosis and hypertrophy were analyzed through immunohistochemistry (IHC). Human cardiomyocytes were exposed to DOXO (200 nM) alone or in combination with Singo (at 10, 25 and 50 µg/mL) for 24 and 48 h. Cell viability and inflammation studies were also performed. In preclinical models, Singo significantly improved ejection fraction and fractional shortening. Reduced expressions of myocardial NLRP3 and NF-kB levels in cardiac tissues were seen in DOXO–Singo mice vs. DOXO (p < 0.05). The myocardial levels of calgranulin S100 and galectin-3 were strongly reduced in DOXO–Singo mice vs. DOXO (p < 0.05). Immunohistochemistry analysis indicates that Singo reduces fibrosis and hypertrophy in the myocardial tissues of mice during exposure to DOXO. In conclusion, in the preclinical model of DOXO-induced cardiotoxicity, Singo is able to improve cardiac function and reduce biomarkers involved in heart failure and fibrosis.

Dietary intake of Spirulina platensis alters HSP70 gene expression profiles in the brain of rats in an experimental model of mixed stress

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2022
J GENET

Spirulina platensis has gradually gained more attention for its therapeutic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory potential worldwide. However, the current molecular knowledge about the effects of spirulina on stress-related genes is rather limited. The effects of dietary intake of spirulina on the HSP70 gene expression were assessed in a controlled in vivo experimental design. Moreover, alterations in serum corticosterone levels, IL-2, IL-4, IFN-γ, triglyceride, ALT, AST, relative gene expression values, and the correlations between them were evaluated. A total of 36 rats were divided into four groups: control group, stress-only group, spirulina group, and spirulina+stress group. To control the dose administration, S. platensis was applied by a gastric gavage in stress groups. Crowded environment stress and hosting alone stress were applied to the stress-only group and spirulina + stress group. RNA was extracted from brain samples using TRIpure and the relative gene expression assessment was performed using Roche-LightCycler-480-II real-time PCR-System. Gene expression values were remarkably different among the four experimental groups. The differences between stress-only and the spirulina groups were statistically significant (P<0.05). The correlation between the HSP70 gene expression and the IFN-γ was found to be statistically significant (P<0.05; r=0.50). Results indicate a novel effect of spirulina on the HSP70 expression related to the stress-response. Data presented in this study may be useful for further studies to define not only the molecular genetic aspects through dietary S. platensis but also the effects of spirulina on stress-response and animal welfare.Graphical abstract

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Article

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Aug 2022

Trends and Technological Advancements in the Possible Food Applications of Spirulina and Their Health Benefits: A Review

Article

Full-text available

Aug 2022
MOLECULES

Spirulina is a kind of blue-green algae (BGA) that is multicellular, filamentous, and prokaryotic. It is also known as a cyanobacterium. It is classified within the phylum known as blue-green algae. Despite the fact that it includes a high concentration of nutrients, such as proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids—in particular, the necessary omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids—the percentage of total fat and cholesterol that can be found in these algae is substantially lower when compared to other food sources. This is the case even if the percentage of total fat that can be found in these algae is also significantly lower. In addition to this, spirulina has a high concentration of bioactive compounds, such as phenols, phycocyanin pigment, and polysaccharides, which all take part in a number of biological activities, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. As a result of this, spirulina has found its way into the formulation of a great number of medicinal foods, functional foods, and nutritional supplements. Therefore, this article makes an effort to shed light on spirulina, its nutritional value as a result of its chemical composition, and its applications to some food product formulations, such as dairy products, snacks, cookies, and pasta, that are necessary at an industrial level in the food industry all over the world. In addition, this article supports the idea of incorporating it into the food sector, both from a nutritional and health perspective, as it offers numerous advantages.

Life cycle assessment of wastewater treatment by microalgae

Chapter

Sep 2022

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a widely used tool for estimation of environmental footprint of any products, technologies and services, throughout its whole lifecycle from cradle to grave. It is a standardized decision support system, for quantifying the different environmental impact categories and deciding upon the sustainability of each system employed. The use of LCA tools for wastewater treatment and their impact assessment is started very recently. In wastewater treatment the LCA tools compile and evaluate the inputs and the outputs, and consider their potential environmental impacts associated with the operation of the system for all types of wastewater treatment plants either for conventional or algal ponds, throughout its whole process chain. The LCA studies generally follow ISO standards (International Organization for Standardization) with baseline framework consisting of four phases’ viz. goal and scope determination, life cycle inventory analysis (LCI), life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) and interpretation of results. The inventory analysis accumulate the data or the database for analysis, using specific criteria or data quality matrices and the impact assessment is carried out with the help of different type of softwares viz. SimaPro®, Gabi®, OpenLCA®, Umberto® etc. The impact assessment transforms the mathematical data to environmental effect equivalent via the factor multiplication. The LCA studies has validated that the wastewater treatment with microalgae comparing to the conventional, can significantly reduced the negative environmental impacts, as well as the system has the advantage on low cost of operation, the possibility of recycling the nutrients in wastewater to high value products, reducing the emissions by absorption of CO2 present in the flue gases and the discharge of oxygenated effluent into the water body.

Moringa and Spirulina: Mini Review on their use against COVID-19

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2021

The world woke up in 2020 with a new virus called coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). The virus spread easily from Wuhan, a western province in China to the whole world and caused a pandemic situation. Some preventive measures such as wearing of face masks and the use of alcohol-based sanitizers have been prescribed by the World Health Organization (WHO). All these measures could not effectively handle the virus, and the world started to search for a new solution by using herbal medicines. This mini-review discusses the use of Moringa and spirulina to combat COVID-19.

Supplementation with Spirulina platensis Prevents Damage to Rat Erections in a Model of Erectile Dysfunction Promoted by Hypercaloric Diet-Induced Obesity

Article

Full-text available

Jul 2022
MAR DRUGS

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve and/or maintain a penile erection sufficient for sexual satisfaction. Currently, many patients do not respond to the pharmacotherapy. The effects of a supplementation with Spirulina platensis, were evaluated in a model of ED induced by hypercaloric diet consumption. Wistar rats were divided into groups fed with standard diet (SD) or hypercaloric diet (HD) and supplemented with this alga at doses of 25, 50 or 100 mg/kg. Experimental adiposity parameters and erectile function were analyzed. In SD groups, Spirulina platensis reduced food intake, final body mass and adiposity index, and increased the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of adipose tissue. However, no change was observed in erectile function. In the HD group, without Spirulina supplementation, a decrease in food intake was observed, in addition to an increase of final body mass, weight gain, adipose reserves, and adiposity index. Additionally, reduction in the number and increase in the latency of penile erection and adipose malondialdehyde levels, as well as a reduction in TCA was noted. Furthermore, cavernous contractility was increased, and the relaxing response was decreased. Interestingly, these deleterious effects were prevented by the algae at doses of 25, 50 and/or 100 mg/kg. Therefore, the supplementation with S. platensis prevents damages associated to a hypercaloric diet consumption and emerges as an adjuvant the prevention of ED.

Nutraceuticals and Natural‐Product Derivatives for Disease Prevention

Chapter

Jul 2022

Nutraceuticals are natural dietary compounds that have been shown to be effective in the treatment of diseases or in preventive medicines. Many foods and dietary supplements are rich in phytochemicals that confer protection against different diseases. The aim of this chapter is to update the latest evidence on the use of nutraceuticals and natural-product derivatives (plant and animal origin and vitamins) in the prevention and treatment of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, obesity, inflammation, and microbial diseases. Further, the elaborate mechanisms of action of the active substances in the nutraceuticals responsible for its preventive and therapeutic action are discussed. which and enhancing human health and well-being. Nutraceuticals and natural-product derivatives can serve as efficient tools for enhancing the health and well-being of mankind.

A nutraceutical combination of spirulina, reishi and moringa exerts significant cytoprotective effects againts doxorubicin and trastuzumab cardiotoxicity.

Article

Jun 2022

e24056 Background: Anthracycline and trastuzumab are essential adjuvant therapies for a variety of cancers, particularly breast, and gastric and esophageal cancers. Whilst prolonging cancer-related survival, these agents can induce drug-related cardiotoxicity. Cardioprotective agents used to mitigate cardiotoxicity, such as angiotensin antagonists, angiotensin receptor blockers and beta‐blockers, are often poorly tolerated in these patients due to intravascular volume fluctuations, which are further escalated by the hemodynamic side effects of these agents. Spiruline, Reishi and Moringa are nutaceuticals with anti-inflammatory effects that are currently used in cancer patients to improve quality of life and fatigue. We hypothesize that the combination of Spirulina, Reishi and Moringa could reduce inflammation and cardiotoxicity of anthracyclines and trastuzumab. Methods: Human cardiomyocytes were exposed to subclinical concentration of doxorubicin and trastuzumab (200 nM) alone or in combination with a formulation composed by Spiruline, Reishi and Moringa (at 10, 25 and 50 µg/ml) for 48h. Cell viability, apoptosis and necrosis were performed. Quantification of malondialdehyde and intracellular Ca2+ were performed through spectrophotometric methods. Anti-inflammatory studies were also performed (expression of NLRP3, TLR4/MyD88 pathways, nuclear expression of NF-kB). Intracellular concentration of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, IL17-α were also performed. Results: Spiruline, Reishi and Moringa in combination increased synergistically the cell viability during exposure to doxorubicin and trastuzumab. The nutraceutical formulation reduces intracellular Ca2+ overload (-48,8% vs cells treated only to anticancer drugs; p < 0,001), lipid peroxidation (- 47,2 % compared to cells exposed only to anticancer drugs; p < 0,001). The expression of MyD88 and NLRP3 inflammasome were also reduced (-36,3 and -28,58 % vs cells exposed only to anticancer drugs, respectively; p < 0.001). Notably, Spiruline, Reishi and Moringa increased of 26,3% the production of IL-10 and IL-2. Cytokines involved in cardiotoxicity and chemoresistance were reduced, such as IL-1α and IL-1β (-18,3 and -27,4 % vs DOXO-TRA group), IL-6 (-31,2 % vs DOXO-TRA group) and IL17-α (-27,3 % vs DOXO-TRA group) (p < 0.01 for all). Conclusions: During exposure to doxorubicin and trastuzumab, the combination of Spiruline, Reishi and Moringa exerts cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. Their properties are mediated by the reduction of iCa2+ content that consequently reduces lipid peroxidation and the expression of NLRP3- MyD88. These results indicating the potential use of this nutraceutical formulation in preclinical models of anthracycline and anti HER2 antibodies-mediated cardiotoxicity.

Synergistic Hypolipidemic and Immunomodulatory Activity of Lactobacillus and Spirulina platensis

Article

May 2022

Asmaa Abdelrahman

Hyperlipidemia is a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease (CHD). The aim of this study was to investigate hypolipidemic effects of Lactobacillus, Spirulina and their combination on Swiss albino mice fed a regular or high-cholesterol diet. Rosuvastatin was used as a reference drug The highest body weight, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol LDL-C and the lowest high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were recorded in a positive control group (G5). Treatment with Lactobacillus or Spirulina or by their combination resulted in a significant decrease in body weight, TC, TG, LDL-C and significant increase in HDL-C (p < 0.05) in both mice fed a regular diet or high-cholesterol diet. The treatments induced a significant increase in Hb, MCHC and HCT levels in mice fed a regular diet (p < 0.05). They did not induce a significant effect on these parameters in mice fed a high-cholesterol diet, while treatment with standard rosuvastatin induced a significant decrease in these parameters (p < 0.05). The treatments induced a significant increase in the platelet count and WBC number in mice fed a regular diet p < 0.05), while they induced significant decrease in these parameters in mice fed a high-cholesterol diet p < 0.05. They also stimulated the innate immunity represented by both monocyte and neutrophil cells in mice fed a regular diet, while this immunity was reduced in mice fed a high-cholesterol diet. It also caused a marked reduction in inflammation and an improvement in the congestion of cardiac tissues, the aorta, and the spleen. The treatment of hyperlipidemic mice with combination of Lactobacillus and Spirulina gave similar results to those obtained with treatment by rosuvastatin

Synergistic Hypolipidemic and Immunomodulatory Activity of Lactobacillus and Spirulina platensis

Article

Full-text available

May 2022

Electrospun Fibers Loaded with Natural Bioactive Compounds as a Biomedical System for Skin Burn Treatment. A Review

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2021

Burns are a major threat to public health and the economy due to their costly and laborious treatment and high susceptibility to infection. Efforts have been made recently to investigate natural bioactive compounds with potential use in wound healing. The importance lies in the capacities that these compounds could possess both in infection control by common and resistant microorganisms, as well as in the regeneration of the affected tissues, having in both cases low adverse effects. However, some bioactive molecules are chemically unstable, poorly soluble, and susceptible to oxidative degradation or have low bioavailability. Therefore, developing new technologies for an efficient treatment of wound healing poses a real challenge. In this context, electrospun nanofibers have gained increasing research interest because bioactive molecules can be easily loaded within the nanofiber, resulting in optimal burst control and enhanced drug stability. Additionally, the nanofibers can mimic the extracellular collagen matrix, providing a suitable highly porous structural support for growing cells that facilitate and accelerate skin burns healing. This review gives an overview of the current state of electrospun fibers loaded with natural bioactive compounds as a biomedical system for skin burn treatment.

Detection of microcystin producing cyanobacteria in Spirulina dietary supplements using multiplex HRM quantitative PCR

Article

Sep 2016

Effect of Spirulina Supplementation on Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Article

Full-text available

Aug 2021

Spirulina is a microalga that presents various important pro-health properties, for instance lowering blood pressure in the research. The study aims to appraise the efficacy of Spirulina administration on systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were retrieved by a systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library databases from inception to June 2021 according to a standardized protocol. The effect size of each study was counted from mean and standard deviation before and after the intervention and shown as Un-standardized mean difference and 95% confidence interval. Sensitivity analyses were performed. Meta-analysis on 5 RCTs with 230 subjects was eligible. The amount of Spirulina ranged from 1 to 8 g per day, and intervention durations ranged from 2 to 12 weeks. Data analysis indicated that Spirulina supplementation led to a significant lowering of SBP (Mean Difference (MD): −4.59 mmHg, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): −8.20 to −0.99, I square statistic (I2) = 65%) and significant lowering of DBP (MD: −7.02 mmHg, CI: −8.86 to −5.18, I2 = 11%), particularly in a subgroup of hypertensive patients. Spirulina administration might have a supportive effect on the prevention and treatment of hypertension. More exact randomized controlled trials are needed to clarify the effect of Spirulina supplementation on blood pressure.

Bioremediation role of Spirulina platensis against deltamethrin-mediated toxicity and its chemical residues in chicken meat

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2021
ENVIRON SCI POLLUT R

Deltamethrin (DM) is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide commonly used in veterinary and agriculture. However, both animal and human exposure are associated with hepatorenal toxicity. Our experimental goal was to assess the protective effects of Spirulina platensis (SP) against DM-induced hepatorenal injury, growth performance, meat chemical composition, and its residues in meat, liver, and skin of broiler chickens. Sixty 1-day-old Cobb broiler chicks were assigned to 4 experimental groups; each was divided into 3 replicates with five chicks each; the 1st group received basal diet alone (control), 2nd group supplemented with SP 20 g/kg diet, 3rd group supplemented with DM 300 mg/kg diet, and 4th group supplemented with DM and SP diet. All groups have received the treatment for 35 days. DM, decreased body weight, weight gain, and increased feed conversion rate. DM showed a significant increase in ALT, AST, urea, creatinine, and MDA and a significant decrease in SOD, and GSH levels. Also, SP significantly reduced DM levels in meat, skin, and liver with a reduction 63.01, 63.00, and 62.90 %, respectively. The DM intoxicated group showed a significant decrease in protein and a marked increase in fat, cholesterol, and triglycerides when compared to the control group. Histopathological changes were also recorded. Dietary SP improved these parameters. Dietary inclusion of SP can be recommended due to the protective effects on DM-induced toxicity in broiler chickens.

Bioremidation of Spirulina Plantesis Against Deltamethrin Mediated Toxicity and Its Chemical Residues in Chicken Meat

Preprint

Full-text available

Apr 2021

Deltamethrin (DM) is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide commonly used in veterinary and agriculture. However, both animal and human exposure is associated with hepatorenal toxicity. Our experimental goal was to assess the protective effects of Spirulina plantesis (SP ) against DM-induced hepato-renal injury, growth performance, meat chemical composition and its residues in meat, liver and skin of broiler chickens. Sixty one-day-old Cobb broiler chicks were assigned to 4 experimental groups, each was divided into 3 replicates with five chicks each; 1 st group received basal diet alone (Control), 2 nd group supplemented with SP 20 g/kg diet, 3 rd group supplemented with DM 300 mg/kg diet, and 4 th group supplemented with DM and SP diet. All groups were received the treatment for 35 days. DM, decreased body weight, weight gain, and increased feed conversion rate. DM showed significant increase in ALT, AST, urea, creatinine and MDA and significant decrease in SOD, and GSH levels. Also, significant decrease in DM levels in meat, skin, and liver by SP with a reduction % 63.01, 63.00 and 62.90 % in meat, skin and liver, respectively. The DM intoxicated group showed significant decrease in protein and significant increase in fat, cholesterol and triglycerides when compared to control group. Histopathological changes were also recorded. Dietary SP improved these parameters parameters. Dietary inclusion of SP can be recommended due to the protective effects on DM induced toxicity in broiler chickens.

Impact of Spirulina maxima Intake and Exercise (SIE) on Metabolic and Fitness Parameters in Sedentary Older Adults with Excessive Body Mass: Study Protocol of a Randomized Controlled Trial

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2021

Life expectancy has increased unprecedentedly in recent decades, benefiting the longevity of the world’s population. The most frequent pathological conditions presented in this age group include excessive body fat, frailty, and hypercholesterolemia. These pathological characteristics condition general health and autonomy in adults to carry out their usual activities. In this sense, the search for a healthy lifestyle is necessary, consisting in a healthy diet that includes supplementation with nutraceuticals and the daily practice of physical activity. This study protocol aims to evaluate the independent and synergistic effect of 12 weeks of Spirulina maxima intake (5 g/day), with or without an exercise program on metabolic and fitness parameters of 52 sedentary older adults with excessive body mass in a double-blind, randomized, crossover, controlled trial design. The main findings from this trial will provide novel evidence for future interventions designed for the elderly population and the result will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and international meetings. ClinicalTrials.gov identification number: NCT04658875 (Effect of Spirulina maxima and Exercise on General Fitness and Blood Lipids in Older Adults).

Microalgae: green cell biofactories in food and feed supply chains

Chapter

Jan 2025

Unraveling the potential of cyanobacteria as food and investigating its production and nutritional properties

Article

Oct 2024

Spor Perspektifinde Sağlık

Book

Oct 2024

Egzersizin Beyin ve Mental Sağlık Üzerindeki EtkisiMehmet Fatih İNCİBAŞFiziksel Aktivitenin Sedanter Bireylere EtkileriGülşah KOLDAŞMerve UCASigara ve SporEmine AYTİŞSpor, Kültür ve Sağlık Perspektifine Kısa Bir BakışMerve UCAGıyasettin BAYDAŞSporcularda Ergojenik Destekler Ve Fonksiyonel BesinlerYaren ARAYHalil İbrahim BİNİCİSporcularda Yeme BozukluklarıBurak ERİMAyşenur TAŞLITaekwondo’da Laktatın RolüAhmet Talha ÖZTÜRKSporda Sosyal Medya ve Psikolojik SağlıkFaik Orhun TAPŞINYakup AKYEL

Spirulina Platensis Alleviates γ- Radiation-Induced Brain Damage by Attenuating Oxidative Stress and Increasing Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) Levels in Male Albino Rats

Article

Feb 2024

Ionizing radiation can irreversibly damage the brain cells’ function and structure. Spirulina platensis (Sp) is widely employed as a dietary supplement because it has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulating properties. Therefore, this work aims to investigate the protective properties of Sp towards γ-irradiation (IRR)-induced brain damage. The whole-body male albino rats were exposed to IRR with a 7 Gy single dose in the absence or presence of Sp (400 mg/kg body weight). The rats were divided into four groups: Group I (control), Group II (Sp), Group III (IRR), and Group IV (Sp + IRR + Sp). The biochemical and histopathological investigations were evaluated two weeks post-irradiation. The results showed that irradiation increased inflammation by increasing tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), IL-1B, and IL-6 while decreasing IL-10. Additionally, irradiation evoked nucleic acid damage. Furthermore, IRR provoked oxidative stress. Similarly, the IRR caused neurotransmitter disturbances by increasing S100 calcium-binding protein (S100B) and γ- aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels while reducing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glutamate levels in brain tissue. Therefore, Sp alleviated IRR-induced brain damage by attenuating the above-mentioned parameters and ameliorating histopathological changes. Consequently, it could be concluded that Sp might exert a beneficial effect on irradiation-induced brain damage by attenuating oxidative stress, regulating BDNF, and suppressing S100B.

The Effects of Spirulina Supplementation on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors: A Narrative Review

Article

Jan 2024

Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) is a cyanobacterium associated with multiple health benefits. Cardiometabolic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and diabetes are prevalent yet usually preventable non-communicable diseases. Modifiable risk factors for cardiometabolic diseases include excessive body weight, body inflammation, atherogenic lipid profile, and imbalanced glucose metabolism. This review explores the effects of spirulina on cardiometabolic diseases risk factors. Spirulina was effective in reducing body weight, body mass index, and waist circumference, with a potential dose-dependent effect. It also decreased interleukin 6, an important biomarker of body inflammation, by inhibiting NADPH oxidase enzyme, and lowering insulin resistance. spirulina supplementation also reduced triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Additionally, spirulina reduced fasting blood sugar and post-prandial blood sugar and increased insulin sensitivity, but no effect was observed on glycated hemoglobin A1c. The diverse nutrients, such as phycocyanin, gamma-linolenic acid, and vitamin B12, present in spirulina contribute to its cardiometabolic benefits. The doses used are heterogeneous for most studies, ranging from 1 to 8 grams daily, but most studies administered spirulina for 3 months to observe an effect. The collective evidence suggests that spirulina supplements may help improve risk factors for cardiometabolic diseases, thus, preventing its development. However, due to the heterogeneity of the results, more randomized clinical trials are needed to draw robust conclusions about spirulina's therapeutic potential in ameliorating risk factors for cardiometabolic diseases and fully elucidate the mechanisms by which it exerts its effects.

Functional Foods: Potential Activity For Controlling Heart Disease

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2023

In modern communities, functional foods are very much acceptable to health-conscious people. Functional foods are considered healthy foods. Chronic diseases like Heart-related issues develop due to the intake of excessive quantities of fat, refined sugar, salt, and cholesterol-rich foods. However functional foods are involved to facilitate heart distress. Intake of active food ingredients like micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), dietary fibre, antioxidants, and probiotic foods improve cardiovascular disorder therefore upgrading physical and mental well-being. Authors have demonstrated that aged people suffer chronic distress in general therefore it can be prevented by functional foods. functional foods are more relevant than synthetic drugs or pharmaceuticals. So, heart-related issues are torn down by the consumption of functional foods in adequate quantity. Functional foods which have good quantity of bioactive compounds, nutraceutical attributes these are fruits and vegetables, green tea, turmeric, onion, spirulina, soyabean, oats and barley, probiotics and prebiotics, extra virgin olive oil and so on, have capability to mitigate intricate difficulties of cardiovascular disease. Precisely, the motive of this review is the advantageous effect of functional foods in preventing the manifestations of heart disorders around the globe. This review article highlights functional foods' potential activity to control heart disorders.

Global market opportunities for food and feed products from microalgae

Chapter

Jun 2023

The chapter focus is an evaluation of microalgae-based food and feed and its global market opportunities. An overview of algae-based food and feed products and its use as well as a very brief of global market scenario has been presented. Microalgae containing potential food and feed and formation of those materials and its sustainable issues has been explained. Initial investigation has been done to conduct a meaningful global market analysis of microalgae-based product. A global market analysis has been done determining its current market values and a projection for future with a certain CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate). The global microalgae-based market opportunities have been described based on the microalgae use for fish, animal, poultry and human food, and bear in mind its use as cosmetics, nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. Finally, the potential challenges hinder global microalgae-based market opportunities has been discussed specially scientific, operational and external factors has been explained. The technical and non-technical factors have been explained which affecting global microalgae market opportunities. The ethical issues related to the marine food and algae-based product has been presented. Integrating all discussion and analysis it is very clear that microalgae-based products are eco-friendly, organic and have diversify use in food, nutrition and medical sector. To ensure a viable alga based global market it is very important to identify the potential challenges related to the supply chain malmanagement of algae-based product processing and marketing. Future prospect of global microalgae-based market opportunities and recommendation for further work has also been added.

SPIRULINA (ARTHROSPIRA) PLATENSIS - A REVIEW OF POSSIBLE HYPOTRIGLYCERIDEMIC EFFECTS

Article

Mar 2023

Spirulina (Arthrospira) sp. is a blue-green algae that is often used as a dietary supplement in powder or tablet form because of its beneficial nutrients, lack of toxicity and therapeutic effects. This study investigates its effects on subjects supplemented with Spirulina, focusing on its effects on triglyceride values. A literature review was conducted on the effects of Spirulina on different organisms, with a focus on triglycerides. Most research with Spirulina sp. has shown that it has a hypotriglyceridemic effect on patients given Spirulina, but also on some animals, with numerous studies also done on rats. Following analysis, it has been found that Spirulina supplementation has a favorable effect on triglycerides, lowering their value considerably, leading to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. The microalga Spirulina sp. has been the subject of research due to evidence of its therapeutic potential in several areas, including its ability to prevent and reduce damage caused by dyslipidemia and its antioxidant activity. The present study suggests that Spirulina supplementation may produce beneficial effects on triglycerides.

Effect of a novel dietary supplement Khejri, and Spirulina supplementation on lipid profile in cricket players

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2023

Prosopis cineraria (Fabaceae) is known as Khejri in India or the golden tree of Indian deserts. It’s potential as a dietary supplement in sports nutrition and its effect on regulating lipid profile has never been investigated. Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) is a superfood with high nutritional value and is a popular supplement among athletes. In the current study, Spirulina and Khejri were used as supplements by cricket players to improve their physical fitness and lipid profile. Both supplements were given to individual groups and in combination to see the combined effect. The intervention period was 21 days, and supplements were given in 500 mg doses daily. Lipid profile assessments were done before and after the intervention period. 40 cricket players were divided into 4 groups: Group 1 (n = 10): Both supplements, Spirulina and Khejri, Group 2 (n = 10): Supplement Spirulina, Group 3 (n = 10): Supplement Khejri, and Group 4 (n = 10): Control. When experimental groups 1, 2 and 3 were compared to the control group 4, significant reduction was observed in triglyceride levels (Group1 vs. control: 141.53 ± 14.74 vs. 199.28 ± 27.24, p < 0.05; Group 2 vs. control: 137.5 ± 14 vs. 199.28 ± 27.24, p < 0.05; Group 3 vs. control: 135.32 ± 17.34 vs. 199.28 ± 27.24, p < 0.05) and significant reduction in cholesterol levels was found post-intervention after 21 days of supplementation (Group1 vs. control: 149.75 ± 7.08 vs. 207.86 ± 11.69, p < 0.001; Group 2 vs. control: 178.28 ± 9.43 vs. 207.86 ± 11.69, p < 0.05; Group 3 vs. control: 142.92 ± 10.01 vs. 207.86 ± 11.69, p < 0.001). Cholesterol and Triglyceride levels were significantly decreased pre- vs. post-intervention by Khejri and Spirulina supplements in cricket players.

Ecological and environmental services of microalgae

Chapter

Aug 2022

The purpose of this chapter is to scrutinize and render significant knowledge regarding potential applications of microalgae bolstering the environment and ecosystem. This chapter focuses on assessing the capabilities of microalgal species as a raw material for developing biologically significant products with applications in diverse spectra. The chapter is divided into three major sections: (1) microalgae—which discusses, in brief, the versatility of microalgae and different species, various cultivation methods and production processes following the roadmap and their market potential respectively; (2) ecological services—which deals with broad range applications of microalgae benefiting human and social welfare, for example, health supplements, poultry feeding, antitumor activity, antioxidant properties, cosmetics, and therapeutic applications; (3) environment-based services—which illustrate the potential role of microalgae in treating wastewaters, pest control, aquaculture, mitigation of harmful gases, production of diverse biofuels like biodiesel, and bioethanol, remediation of heavy metals toxicity such as mercury and cadmium. Furthermore, this chapter gives a brief overview of different regulatory policies associated with the exploitation of microalgae for serving mankind and improving the condition of the environment, indenting to make the world a better place to live in.

Spirulina- a marine miracle for sustainable food system

Article

Full-text available

Aug 2022

Promoting optimal nutrition, health, and sustainable food systems in an era of population explosion, dietary transformation, and climate change is a critical risk factor of our generation. Thus, the food sector is confronted with the issue of producing low-cost, nutrient-dense, and convenient foods. Therefore, it is critical to investigate food sources that are technologically feasible and have a positive environmental and economic impact. Spirulina is one of those sources that facilitate manufacturing, processing, and distribution together with a wide variety of nutrients that enhance human health. It is a marine alga that provides the possibility of improving food security while at the same time benefiting the environment by utilizing fewer soils to produce as much protein and energy as livestock thereby helping to reach SDG 14 which states the use of marine resources for sustainable development. Spirulina has been shown to have potential therapeutic roles. Moreover, Spirulina and its constituents have found widespread application in the food manufacturing industry. Thus, this paper aims to provide an overview of the beneficial applications of Spirulina, its role in maintaining food security, and its application to combat the global problem of malnutrition without affecting the sustainable food system.

Supplementation With Spirulina Reduces Infarct Size and Ameliorates Cardiac Function in a Pig Model of STEMI

Article

Full-text available

May 2022

Background and Aims: Myocardial infarction (MI) is the clinical manifestation of atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. Spirulina is an algae known to ameliorate cardiometabolic disorders and with proven anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects. We investigated, in a highly translatable animal model, whether oral supplementation with spirulina protects against the deleterious effects triggered by ST-elevation MI (STEMI). Methods: Pigs were fed a regular diet supplemented with spirulina (1 g/animal/bid) or placebo-control for 10 days. Thereafter, animals were subjected to 1.5 h percutaneous balloon-induced coronary occlusion (STEMI) followed by 2.5 h reperfusion and then sacrificed. We assessed infarct size and cardiac function. Blood samples and infarcted and remote myocardial tissue were obtained. Results: Spirulina supplementation reduced infarct size by 64%, increased myocardial salvage by 18%, and improved cardiac function by 30% vs. controls (p < 0.05). These benefits were associated with attenuation in DNA-oxidative damage and apoptotic markers and increased iNOS in the infarcted myocardium, higher AMPK activation in the remote myocardium, and lower myocardial MCP-1 expression. Systemically, spirulina attenuated Cox-2 expression in STEMI-activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells and enhanced TNF-α release acutely post-STEMI. Additionally, spirulina decreased weight gain progression over time (p < 0.05) without changes in lipids, glucose, liver or kidney parameters. Conclusion: A 10-day supplementation with spirulina exerts cardioprotection in a preclinical setting of STEMI by limiting cardiac damage and improving ventricular contractility through anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms.

Nitrogen Balance and Bioavailability of Amino Acids in Spirulina Diet-Fed Wistar Rats

Article

Nov 2021

EJONS 12th International Conference on Mathematics, Engineering, Natural and Medical Sciences full texts book

Chapter

Full-text available

Sep 2021

The Effects of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) Supplementation on Anthropometric Indices, Blood Pressure, Sleep Quality, Mental Health, Fatigue Status, and Quality of Life in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis: A Randomized, Double‐blinded, Placebo‐controlled Trial

Article

Jun 2021

Background An emerging body of evidence has highlighted the protective role of spirulina in human health. Thus, we conducted a randomized controlled trial to discern the effects of spirulina supplementation on anthropometric indices, blood pressure, sleep quality, mood, fatigue status, and quality of life among ulcerative colitis patients. Methods Eighty participants with ulcerative colitis were randomly allocated to receive, either, 1 g/day (two 500 mg capsules) spirulina (n=40) or placebo (n=40), in a clinical trial for eight weeks. Dietary intake, physical activity, sleep quality, mental health, fatigue status, and quality of life were assessed for each participant at baseline and trial cessation. Anthropometric indices and blood pressure were also assessed. Results Seventy-three participants completed the intervention. Our results revealed that spirulina supplementation significantly reduced sleep disturbances (p=0.03), while no significant changes occurred in the sleep quality score or other sleep parameters, vs. the placebo group (p> 0.05). Furthermore, a significant reduction in stress score (p=0.04) and increase in quality of life (p=0.03) was detected; but not anxiety, depression, or fatigue scores (p> 0.05). Additionally, anthropometric indices and blood pressure did not significantly change (p> 0.05). Conclusion An improved quality of life was observed among ulcerative colitis patients following spirulina supplementation, which could be attributed to improved sleep disturbance and stress status. Further clinical studies, with longer duration interventions and suitably powered sample sizes, are necessary to elucidate the veracity of our findings.

Guidelines of the Hellenic society of atherosclerosis for the diagnosis and treatment of dyslipidemia

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2011

Antidiabetic property of Spirulina

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2007
Diabetologia Croat

To evaluate the antidiabetic property of spirulina, experimentation was studied in an animal model before proceeding to clinical trials. The levels of blood glucose, plasma insulin and serum C-peptide, and activities of the glucose metabolizing enzymes hexokinase and glucose-6-phosphatase were estimated and studied in streptozotocin diabetic rats. The findings were compared between normal, diabetic and spirulina supplemented diabetic rats. The findings indicated that the administration of spirulina tended to bring the parameters significantly towards the normal. The effect of spirulina at a dose of 15 mg/kg body weight yielded a higher level of significance than the doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg body weight, therefore the former was used in further biochemical and clinical studies. The activity of hexokinase in the liver decreased markedly, while the activity of glucose-6-phosphatase increased significantly in diabetic control rats. Treatment with spirulina in diabetic rats increased the hexokinase activity and decreased the glucose-6-phosphatase activity.

Association of LDL Cholesterol, Non–HDL Cholesterol, and Apolipoprotein B Levels With Risk of Cardiovascular Events Among Patients Treated With Statins

Article

Full-text available

Mar 2012
J Am Med Assoc

The associations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C), and apolipoprotein B (apoB) levels with the risk of cardiovascular events among patients treated with statin therapy have not been reliably documented. To evaluate the relative strength of the associations of LDL-C, non-HDL-C, and apoB with cardiovascular risk among patients treated with statin therapy. Meta-analysis of individual patient data from randomized controlled statin trials in which conventional lipids and apolipoproteins were determined in all study participants at baseline and at 1-year follow-up. Relevant trials were identified by a literature search updated through December 31, 2011. Investigators were contacted and individual patient data were requested and obtained for 62,154 patients enrolled in 8 trials published between 1994 and 2008. Hazard ratios (HRs) and corresponding 95% CIs for risk of major cardiovascular events adjusted for established risk factors by 1-SD increase in LDL-C, non-HDL-C, and apoB. Among 38,153 patients allocated to statin therapy, 158 fatal myocardial infarctions, 1678 nonfatal myocardial infarctions, 615 fatal events from other coronary artery disease, 2806 hospitalizations for unstable angina, and 1029 fatal or nonfatal strokes occurred during follow-up. The adjusted HRs for major cardiovascular events per 1-SD increase were 1.13 (95% CI, 1.10-1.17) for LDL-C, 1.16 (95% CI, 1.12-1.19) for non-HDL-C, and 1.14 (95% CI, 1.11-1.18) for apoB. These HRs were significantly higher for non-HDL-C than LDL-C (P = .002) and apoB (P = .02). There was no significant difference between apoB and LDL-C (P = .21). Among statin-treated patients, on-treatment levels of LDL-C, non-HDL-C, and apoB were each associated with risk of future major cardiovascular events, but the strength of this association was greater for non-HDL-C than for LDL-C and apoB.

Statistical modelling of 10-year fatal cardiovascular disease risk in Greece: The HellenicSCORE (a calibration of the ESC SCORE project)

Article

Full-text available

Mar 2007

Interest in the development of functions that estimate the likelihood of an individual suffering a future cardiovascular disease (CVD) event has increased in recent times (e.g. Framingham sheets, SCORE-Systematic COronary Risk Estimation, PROCAM, etc.). However, the estimates of absolute risk may show substantial variations between different populations, because of geographical, cultural, social, behavioural and genetic differences, as well as various methodological issues related to the predictive models employed. We sought to calibrate the SCORE equations to the Greek population. We used the SCORE system that offers an estimation of total fatal CVD risk in "high" and "low" CVD risk European countries. The project pulls together a pool of datasets from 12 European countries and 2.7 million person-years of observation. A mathematical procedure to adjust the risk estimates for individual countries was applied, based on local mortality and risk factor prevalence data from the ATTICA epidemiological study, which enrolled 3042 men and women (18+ years old), from the Attica region of Greece. We present the calibration of the HellenicSCORE (equations, charts) by age group and sex, based on mortality data, as reported by the National Statistical Services, and prevalence data regarding smoking, total cholesterol and blood pressure levels, as reported by the ATTICA study. The proposed HellenicSCORE will hopefully result in better estimation of the risk of CVD death in Greece and enhance handling of CVD risk factors in the referent population.

A randomized study to establish the effects of Spirulina in Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2008
Nutr Res Pract

Spirulina is a microscopic and filamentous cyanobacterium that contains essential amino acids, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidative components. The purpose of this study was to examine effects of spirulina intervention in Korean patients with type 2 diabetes. The subjects were 37 type 2 diabetic patients who visited a diabetic clinic in Seoul and randomly assigned into spirulina (8 g/day) or control group. During the intervention period of 12 weeks, subjects were asked to keep usual diet and prohibited to take any functional foods or dietary supplements. Spirulina supplementation for 12 weeks did not affect anthropometric parameters, however, lowered plasma triglycerides level significantly (p<0.05). Spirulina supplementation also resulted in a significant reduction in plasma malondialdehyde level (p<0.05) and an increase in plasma adiponectin level (p<0.1). The lipid lowering effect of spirulina supplementation was different according to serum lipid levels of the subjects before entering the intervention. The subjects with higher initial triglyceride level showed higher reduction in plasma triglyceride and blood pressure. The subjects with higher initial total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol level showed higher reduction in plasma concentrations of total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, IL-6, and blood pressure. It seems that spirulina supplementation is more effective in subjects with dyslipidemia. This study provides the evidence for beneficial effects of spirulina supplementation on blood lipid profiles, inflammatory variables, and antioxidant capacity in Korean patients with type 2 diabetes. The results suggest that spirulina is a promising agent as a functional food for diabetes management.

Effects of Dietary Spirulina on Vascular Reactivity

Article

Full-text available

Mar 2009
J MED FOOD

There are several reports suggesting that Spirulina (Arthrospira) may have a beneficial effect in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Here we review the results of studies on the effects of dietary Spirulina on the vasomotor reactivity of aortic rings excised from either lean or obese Wistar rats. We also review preliminary results on the effects of Spirulina intake on plasma lipids and blood pressure in humans. The results of the former studies strongly suggest that Spirulina induces a tone-related increase in the synthesis/release of nitric oxide by the endothelium as well as an increase in the synthesis/release of a vasodilating cyclooxygenase-dependent metabolite of arachidonic acid and/or a decrease in the synthesis/release of a vasoconstricting eicosanoid by the endothelium. In humans, Spirulina maxima intake decreases blood pressure and plasma lipid concentrations, especially triacylglycerols and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, and indirectly modifies the total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol values.

Use of a Reference Material Proposed by the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine to Evaluate Analytical Methods for the Determination of Plasma Lipoprotein(a)

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2001

As part of the NIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Contract for the Standardization of Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] Measurements, a study was performed in collaboration with the IFCC Working Group for the Standardization of Lp(a) Assays. The aims of the study, performed with the participation of 16 manufacturers and 6 research laboratories, were to evaluate the IFCC proposed reference material (PRM) for its ability to transfer an accuracy-based value to the immunoassay calibrators and to assess concordance in results among different methods. Two different purified Lp(a) preparations with protein mass concentrations determined by amino acid analysis were used to calibrate the reference method. A Lp(a) value of 107 nmol/L was assigned to PRM. After uniformity of calibration was demonstrated in the 22 evaluated systems, Lp(a) was measured on 30 fresh-frozen sera covering a wide range of Lp(a) values and apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)] sizes. The among-laboratory CVs for these samples (6-31%) were, in general, higher than those obtained for PRM (2.8%) and the quality-control samples (14%, 12%, and 9%, respectively), reflecting the broad range of apo(a) sizes in the 30 samples and the sensitivity of most methods to apo(a) size heterogeneity. Thus, although all of the assays were uniformly calibrated through the use of PRM, no uniformity in results was achieved for the isoform-sensitive methods. Linear regression analyses indicated that to various degrees, apo(a) size heterogeneity affects the outcome of the immunochemical methods used to measure Lp(a). We have also shown that the inaccuracy of Lp(a) values determined by methods sensitive to apo(a) size significantly affects the assessment of individual risk status for coronary artery disease.

Hypocholesterolemic Effect of Spirulina in Patients with Hyperlipidemic Nephrotic Syndrome

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2002

In nephrotic syndrome, large amounts of plasma proteins are lost in urine, causing a decrease in the plasma oncotic pressure. This leads to enhanced hepatic synthesis of albumin and other proteins, including lipoproteins, causing a secondary hyperlipidemia. Essential fatty acids such as gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) can prevent accumulation of cholesterol in the body, and spirulina has an appreciable amount of GLA. In this study 23 patients (age 2 to 13 years) with nephrotic syndrome received either medication (group I) or medication plus 1 g/day Spirulina (group II). Height, weight, and serum levels of fasting blood sugar, triglycerides, total cholesterol (TC), and low- and high-density cholesterol fractions (LDL-C and HDL-C, respectively) were measured before and after the 2-month study period. Mean height and weight were normal compared with healthy, age-matched Indian children. Lipoprotein cholesterol levels were significantly increased at baseline. TC significantly decreased by 116.33 mg/dl, LDL-C by 94.14 mg/dl, and triglycerides by 67.72 mg/dl in group II; in control group I, these values fell by 69.87, 61.13, and 22.62 mg/dl, respectively. The LDL-C:HDL-C ratio also decreased significantly, by 1.66 in group II and 1.13 in group I. TC:HDL-C decreased by 1.96 in group II and 1.19 in group I. HDL-C:LDL-C also improved significantly in both the groups. It can be concluded that spray-dried Spirulina capsules, rich in antioxidants, GLA, amino acids, and fatty acids, helped reduce the increased levels of lipids in patients with hyperlipidemic nephrotic syndrome.

Role of Spirulina in the Control of Glycemia and Lipidemia in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2001
J MED FOOD

Spirulina, with its high concentration of functional nutrients, is emerging as an important therapeutic food. This study aimed to evaluate the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic role of Spirulina. Twenty-five subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus were randomly assigned to receive Spirulina (study group) or to form the control group. At baseline, the control and study groups were matched for various variables. The efficacy of Spirulina supplementation (2 g/day for 2 months) was determined using the preintervention and postintervention blood glucose levels, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA(1c)) levels, and lipid profiles of the diabetic subjects. Two-month supplementation with Spirulina resulted in an appreciable lowering of fasting blood glucose and postprandial blood glucose levels. A significant reduction in the HbA(1c) level was also observed, indicating improved long-term glucose regulation. With regard to lipids, triglyceride levels were significantly lowered. Total cholesterol (TC) and its fraction, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), exhibited a fall coupled with a marginal increase in the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). As a result, a significant reduction in the atherogenic indices, TC:HDL-C and LDL-C: HDL-C, was observed. The level of apolipoprotein B registered a significant fall together with a significant increment in the level of apolipoprotein A1. Therefore, a significant and favorable increase in the ratio of A1:B was also noted. These findings suggest the beneficial effect of Spirulina supplementation in controlling blood glucose levels and in improving the lipid profile of subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

A Novel Protein C-Phycocyanin Plays a Crucial Role in the Hypocholesterolemic Action of Spirulina platensis Concentrate in Rats

Article

Full-text available

Nov 2005

This study was designed to clarify the mechanisms of the hypocholesterolemic action of Spirulina platensis concentrate (SPC) and identify the novel hypocholesterolemic protein derived from SPC. We investigated the effects of casein or SPC on the solubility of cholesterol, taurocholate binding capacity in vitro, cholesterol absorption in Caco-2 cells, and cholesterol metabolism in rats for 10 d. We also evaluated the effects of SPC, C-phycocyanin (PHY), and PHY residue on cholesterol metabolism in rats fed a high-cholesterol diet for 5 d, and SPC or SPC-acetone extract for 10 d. SPC had a significantly greater bile acid-binding capacity than casein in vitro. Micellar cholesterol solubility and cholesterol uptake by Caco-2 cells was significantly lower in the presence of SPC compared with casein. Fecal excretion of cholesterol and bile acids was significantly greater in rats fed the SPC-supplemented diet than in those fed the casein control diet. Serum and liver cholesterol concentrations were significantly lower in rats fed SPC than in those fed casein. Thus, the hypocholesterolemic action of SPC may involve the inhibition of both jejunal cholesterol absorption and ileal bile acid reabsorption. Although no studies to date have found a hypocholesterolemic protein among the algal proteins, we report here the discovery of a hypocholesterolemic effect in the novel protein C-phycocyanin. This study provides the first direct evidence that PHY, a novel hypocholesterolemic protein derived from Spirulina platensis, can powerfully influence serum cholesterol concentrations and impart a stronger hypocholesterolemic activity than SPC in animals.

Amaranth oil application for coronary heart disease and hypertension

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2007
LIPIDS HEALTH DIS

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the Nation's leading killer for both men and women among all racial and ethnic groups. Development and progression of CVD is linked to the presence of risk factors such as hyperlipidemia, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes mellitus. It is known that cholesterol is an indicator of increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Low-density cholesterol (LDL) above 130 mg/dl high-density cholesterol (HDL) cholesterol below 35 mg/dl and total blood cholesterol above 200 mg/dl are indicators of problematic cholesterol. Proper ranges of cholesterol are important in the prevention of CVD. It has been suggested that a reduction in the consumption of saturated and an increase in unsaturated fatty acids is beneficial and prevents CVD. Amaranth grain contains tocotrienols and squalene compounds, which are known to affect cholesterol biosynthesis. The cholesterol precursors squalene, lanosterol and other methyl sterols, reflect cholesterol synthesis [1-3], whereas plant sterols and cholestanol, a metabolite of cholesterol, reflect the efficiency of cholesterol absorption in normal and hyperlipidemic populations [4-6]. Qureshi with co-authors [7] showed that feeding of chickens with amaranth oil decreases blood cholesterol levels, which are supported by the work of others [8]. Previously, we have shown that Amaranth oil modulates the cell membrane fluidity [9] and stabilized membranes that could be one reason as to why it is beneficial to those who consume it. It is known that in hypertension, the cell membrane is defective and hence, the movement of the Na and K ions across the cell membranes could defective that could contribute to the development of increase in blood pressure. Based on these properties of amaranth oil we hypothesize that it could be of significant benefit for patients with CVD.

Antihyperlipemic and antihypertensive effects of Spirulina maxima in an open sample of Mexican population: A preliminary report

Article

Full-text available

Nov 2007
LIPIDS HEALTH DIS

Spirulina maxima is a filamentous cyanobacterium used as food supplement because of its high nutrient contents. It has been experimentally proven, in vivo and in vitro that posses several pharmacological properties. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of Spirulina maxima orally supplied (4.5 g/day, for 6 weeks) to a sample of 36 subjects (16 men and 20 women, with ages between 18-65 years) on serum lipids, glucose, aminotransferases and on blood pressure. The volunteers did not modify their dietary habits or lifestyle during the whole experimental period. From each subject, a sample of blood was drawn in fasting state of 12 hours to determi the plasma concentrations of glucose, triacylglycerols (TAG), total cholesterol (TC), cholesterol associated to high density lipoprotein (HDL-C) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Anthropometric measurements including systolic (SYST-P) and diastolic (DIAST-P) blood pressure, height, weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) were also recorded. Comparing initial and final data, the results showed that there were no significant changes in the values of glucose and AST, but significant differences in TAG, TC, and HDL-C, were observed: TAG 233.7 +/- 177.8 vs. 167.7 +/- 100.7 mg/dL (p < 0.001), TC 181.7 +/- 37.5 vs. 163.5 +/- 34.4 mg/dL (p < 0.001), C-HDL 43.5 +/- 14.4 vs. 50 +/- 18.8 mg/dL (p < 0.01). The univariated analysis showed that the changes in the HDL-C and TC concentrations were dependent on TAG concentration (p = 0.247 and p = 0.108, respectively); nevertheless the calculated values for cholesterol associated to low density lipoprotein (LDL-C) were significantly reduced by the Spirulina maxima treatment but independently of the TAG changes. In addition, significant differences were found comparing initial and final SYST-P and DIAST-P blood pressure in both male and female: SYST-P male 121 +/- 9 vs. 111 +/- 8 mm Hg (p < 0.01), DIAST-P male 85 +/- 6.5 vs. 77 +/- 9 mm Hg (p < 0.01); SYST-P female 120 +/- 9.5 vs. 109 +/- 11 mm Hg (p < 0.002), DIAST-P female 85 +/- 11 vs. 79 +/- 7.5 mm Hg (p < 0.03). The Spirulina maxima showed a hypolipemic effect, especially on the TAG and the LDL-C concentrations but indirectly on TC and HDL-C values. It also reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Acute rhabdomyolysis caused by Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis)

Article

Full-text available

Jul 2008

Rhabdomyolysis is a potentially life-threatening disorder that occurs as a primary disease or as a complication of a broad spectrum of other diseases. We report the first case of acute rhabdomyolysis after ingestion of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis), a plantonic blue-green alga, as a dietary supplement.

American Heart Association Statistics Committee and Stroke Statistics Subcommittee. Heart disease and stroke statistics—2011 update: A report from the American Heart Association

Article

Jan 2011
CIRCULATION

Effect of supplementation of Spirulina on blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin and lipid profile of male noninsulin dependent diabetics

Article

Jan 2010

Effect of supplementation of Spirulina on hypercholesterolemic patients

Article

Mar 1996

The effect of Spirulina on hypercholesterolemic patients was carried out in Coimbatore city. Thirty ischaemic heart disease patients without any complications of the disease and with blood cholesterol levels above 250mg/dl were selected for the study and divided into three groups of 10 each for supplementation of Spirulina. Subjects in groups A and B received 2g and 4g Spirulina per day, respectively for three months. Group C served as control. The study has revealed that Spirulina plays a key role in weight reduction, lowering the blood cholesterol levels and improving the lipid profile of patients.

Implications of Recent Clinical Trials for the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III Guidelines

Article

Jan 2004

EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION FOR CARDIOVASCULAR PREVENTION & REHABILITATION (EACPR); ESC COMMITTEE FOR PRACTICE GUIDELINES (CPG)

Article

Jan 2012

Cholesterol lowering effect of Spirulina

Article

Jan 1988
Nutr Rep Int

Clinical and biochemical evaluations of the alga Spirulina with regard to its application in the treatment of obesity. A double-blind cross-over study

Article

Jan 1986
Nutr Rep Int

ESC/EAS Guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemias: The Task Force for the management of dyslipidaemias of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS)

Article

Jul 2011

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) due to atherosclerosis of the arterial vessel wall and to thrombosis is the foremost cause of premature mortality and of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in Europe, and is also increasingly common in developing countries.1 In the European Union, the economic cost of CVD represents annually E192 billion1 in direct and indirect healthcare costs. The main clinical entities are coronary artery disease (CAD), ischaemic stroke, and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The causes of these CVDs are multifactorial. Some of these factors relate to lifestyles, such as tobacco smoking, lack of physical activity, and dietary habits, and are thus modifiable. Other risk factors are also modifiable, such as elevated blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and dyslipidaemias, or non-modifiable, such as age and male gender. These guidelines deal with the management of dyslipidaemias as an essential and integral part of CVD prevention. Prevention and treatment of dyslipidaemias should always be considered within the broader framework of CVD prevention, which is addressed in guidelines of the Joint European Societies’ Task forces on CVD prevention in clinical practice.2 – 5 The latest version of these guidelines was published in 20075; an update will become available in 2012. These Joint ESC/European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) guidelines on the management of dyslipidaemias are complementary to the guidelines on CVD prevention in clinical practice and address not only physicians [e.g. general practitioners (GPs) and cardiologists] interested in CVD prevention, but also specialists from lipid clinics or metabolic units who are dealing with dyslipidaemias that are more difficult to classify and treat.

Studies on the Long-Term Effect of Spirulina Supplementation on Serum Lipid Profile and Glycated Proteins in NIDDM Patients

Article

Sep 2000

Mani UV

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disorder, affecting the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Hyperglycemia is also associated with non-enzymatic glycation of serum proteins thereby enhancing the development of secondary complications affecting multiple organ failure. Ninety percent of the diabetics are non-insulin dependent and this syndrome can be effectively controlled with prudent diet therapy. This has spawned a new era of research leading to the use of few natural unprocessed foods like blue-green algae “Spirulina” which has a galaxy of nutrients like linolenic acid, gamma linolenic acid, antioxi-dants, balanced fatty acid profile, amino acids and super oxide dismu-tase. With these components in mind, the present study was planned to observe the long-term effect of spirulina tablet supplementation (2 g/ day) on blood sugar levels, serum lipid profile and glycated serum protein levels of 15 non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) patients. Blood analysis was done at baseline...

Implications of recent clinical trials for the national cholesterol education program adult treatment panel III guidelines (vol 110, pg 227, 2004)

Article

Jul 2004

Scott M. Grundy

The Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) of the National Cholesterol Education Program issued an evidence-based set of guidelines on cholesterol management in 2001. Since the publication of ATP III, 5 major clinical trials of statin therapy with clinical end points have been published. These trials addressed issues that were not examined in previous clinical trials of cholesterol-lowering therapy. The present document reviews the results of these recent trials and assesses their implications for cholesterol management. Therapeutic lifestyle changes (TLC) remain an essential modality in clinical management. The trials confirm the benefit of cholesterol-lowering therapy in high-risk patients and support the ATP III treatment goal of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) <100 mg/dL. They support the inclusion of patients with diabetes in the high-risk category and confirm the benefits of LDL-lowering therapy in these patients. They further confirm that older persons benefit from therapeutic lowering of LDL-C. The major recommendations for modifications to footnote the ATP III treatment algorithm are the following. In high-risk persons, the recommended LDL-C goal is <100 mg/dL, but when risk is very high, an LDL-C goal of <70 mg/dL is a therapeutic option, ie, a reasonable clinical strategy, on the basis of available clinical trial evidence. This therapeutic option extends also to patients at very high risk who have a baseline LDL-C <100 mg/dL. Moreover, when a high-risk patient has high triglycerides or low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), consideration can be given to combining a fibrate or nicotinic acid with an LDL-lowering drug. For moderately high-risk persons (2+ risk factors and 10-year risk 10% to 20%), the recommended LDL-C goal is <130 mg/dL, but an LDL-C goal <100 mg/dL is a therapeutic option on the basis of recent trial evidence. The latter option extends also to moderately high-risk persons with a baseline LDL-C of 100 to 129 mg/dL. When LDL-lowering drug therapy is employed in high-risk or moderately high-risk persons, it is advised that intensity of therapy be sufficient to achieve at least a 30% to 40% reduction in LDL-C levels. Moreover, any person at high risk or moderately high risk who has lifestyle-related risk factors (eg, obesity, physical inactivity, elevated triglycerides, low HDL-C, or metabolic syndrome) is a candidate for TLC to modify these risk factors regardless of LDL-C level. Finally, for people in lower-risk categories, recent clinical trials do not modify the goals and cutpoints of therapy.

Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2012 Update A Report From the American Heart Association

Article

Dec 2011
CIRCULATION

Cholesterol Content of Beef Bone Marrow and Mechanically Deboned Meat

Article

Aug 2006
J FOOD SCI

Marrow from cervical, lumbar and femur bones of 5 steers and 5 cows fed only on native range (grass fed) and 5 steers and 5 cows fed a finishing ration (grain fed) was analyzed for cholesterol content. The cholesterol content of the marrow was significantly different when diet or anatomical locations were compared. Bovine marrow from grass-fed animals averaged 119.6 mg/100g and marrow from grain-fed animals averaged 150.6 mg/100g marrow. The cholesterol content of marrow from the cervical, lumbar, and femur was 190.1, 124.1, and 91.0 mg/100g marrow, respectively. Mechanically deboned meat (MDM) and beef lean had a mean cholesterol content of 153.3 and 50.9 mg/100g tissue. Spinal cord material in MDM can account for the increased concentration of cholesterol in some MDM samples over the values for lean and marrow.

Spirulina: A source of dietary gamma‐linolenic acid?

Article

Jan 1989
J SCI FOOD AGR

P. Grattan Roughan

Spirulina powders obtained from different commercial sources contained 23.6–38.0 mg g ⁻¹ DM as long‐chain fatty acids and 3.4–6.0 mg g ⁻¹ DM as y‐linolenic acid (6, 9, 12‐octadecatrienoic acid). However, γ‐linolenic acid constituted up to 40% of the total fatty acids within the isolated galactolipids. Unesterified fatty acids accounted for 8.4–66.9% of the fatty acids recovered from the different samples; the remaining fatty acids were in glycerolipids. There was also a wide variation in the contents of photosynthetic pigments among the different preparations. Spirulina was four‐fold more expensive than evening primrose oil as a source of a‐linolenic acid to supplement human diets. Since α‐linolenic acid (9, 12, 15‐octadecatrienoic acid), (E)‐3 hexa‐decenoate, 3‐sn‐phosphatidylcholineand 3‐sn‐phosphatidyl ethanol‐amine were not detected in the lipid extracts, none of the samples was significantly adulterated by eucaryotic algae. From an analysis of the extracted lipids it was possible to make some predictions both about the manner in which the cells were cultured and the post‐harvest treatment of the preparations.

Executive Summary of The Third Report of The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, And Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol In Adults (Adult Treatment Panel III)

Article

May 2001

Evaluation Expert Panel on Detection and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults

LR: 20061115; JID: 7501160; 0 (Antilipemic Agents); 0 (Cholesterol, HDL); 0 (Cholesterol, LDL); 57-88-5 (Cholesterol); CIN: JAMA. 2001 Nov 21;286(19):2401; author reply 2401-2. PMID: 11712930; CIN: JAMA. 2001 Nov 21;286(19):2400-1; author reply 2401-2. PMID: 11712929; CIN: JAMA. 2001 Nov 21;286(19):2400; author reply 2401-2. PMID: 11712928; CIN: JAMA. 2001 Nov 21;286(19):2400; author reply 2401-2. PMID: 11712927; CIN: JAMA. 2001 May 16;285(19):2508-9. PMID: 11368705; CIN: JAMA. 2003 Apr 16;289(15):1928; author reply 1929. PMID: 12697793; CIN: JAMA. 2001 Aug 1;286(5):533-5. PMID: 11476650; CIN: JAMA. 2001 Nov 21;286(19):2401-2. PMID: 11712931; ppublish

Obesity: Preventing and Managing the Global Epidemic: Report of a WHO

Article

Jan 2000

Hypertriglyceridemia as a Cardiovascular Risk Factor

Article

Feb 1998
AM J CARDIOL

To determine the relation between plasma triglyceride levels and the risk of incident cardiovascular disease, the semiquantitative techniques of meta-analysis were applied to 17 population-based prospective studies of triglyceride and cardiovascular disease. Sixteen of these studies represented 2,445 events among 46,413 Caucasian men followed for an average period of 8.4 years, and 5 studies represented 439 events among 10,864 Caucasian women followed for an average period of 11.4 years. Univariate relative risk (RR) estimates for incident cardiovascular disease associated with a 1-mmol/L increase in triglyceride was 1.07-1.98 in men, with a summary RR of 1.32 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.26-1.39), indicating a 32% increase in disease risk associated with increased triglyceride. In the studies involving women, individual RR estimates for triglyceride were 1.69-2.05, with a summary RR of 1.76 (95% CI: 1.50-2.07), indicating a 76% increase in disease risk associated with increased triglyceride. After adjustment for high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and other risk factors, these risks were decreased to 14% in men and 37% in women but remained statistically significant. Three recent prospective epidemiologic studies have also shown that plasma triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein particle size predict subsequent coronary artery disease in Caucasian populations. Taken together, these studies demonstrate the importance of triglyceride levels as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Hypolipidemic, Antioxidant, and Antiinflammatory Activities of Microalgae Spirulina

Article

Aug 2010
CARDIOVASC THER

Spirulina is free-floating filamentous microalgae growing in alkaline water bodies. With its high nutritional value, Spirulina has been consumed as food for centuries in Central Africa. It is now widely used as nutraceutical food supplement worldwide. Recently, great attention and extensive studies have been devoted to evaluate its therapeutic benefits on an array of diseased conditions including hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycerolemia, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory diseases, cancer, and viral infections. The cardiovascular benefits of Spirulina are primarily resulted from its hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and antiinflammatory activities. Data from preclinical studies with various animal models consistently demonstrate the hypolipidemic activity of Spirulina. Although differences in study design, sample size, and patient conditions resulting in minor inconsistency in response to Spirulina supplementation, the findings from human clinical trials are largely consistent with the hypolipidemic effects of Spirulina observed in the preclinical studies. However, most of the human clinical trials are suffered with limited sample size and some with poor experimental design. The antioxidant and/or antiinflammatory activities of Spirulina were demonstrated in a large number of preclinical studies. However, a limited number of clinical trials have been carried out so far to confirm such activities in human. Currently, our understanding on the underlying mechanisms for Spirulina's activities, especially the hypolipidemic effect, is limited. Spirulina is generally considered safe for human consumption supported by its long history of use as food source and its favorable safety profile in animal studies. However, rare cases of side-effects in human have been reported. Quality control in the growth and process of Spirulina to avoid contamination is mandatory to guarantee the safety of Spirulina products.

A Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study to Establish the Effects of Spirulina in Elderly Koreans

Article

Feb 2008
ANN NUTR METAB

This study was conducted to determine the antioxidant capacity, immunomodulatory and lipid-lowering effects of spirulina in healthy elderly subjects and to document the effectiveness of spirulina as a functional food for the elderly. A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study was performed. The subjects were 78 individuals aged 60-87 years and were randomly assigned in a blinded fashion to receive either spirulina or placebo. The elderly were instructed to consume the spirulina or placebo at home, 8 g/day, for 16 consecutive weeks. In male subjects, a significant plasma cholesterol-lowering effect was observed after the spirulina intervention (p < 0.05). Spirulina supplementation resulted in a significant rise in plasma interleukin (IL)-2 concentration, and a significant reduction in IL-6 concentration. A significant time-by-treatment intervention for total antioxidant status was observed between spirulina and placebo groups (p < 0.05). In female subjects, significant increases in IL-2 level and superoxide dismutase activity were observed (p < 0.05) after spirulina supplementation. There were significant reductions in total cholesterol in female subjects. The results demonstrate that spirulina has favorable effects on lipid profiles, immune variables, and antioxidant capacity in healthy, elderly male and female subjects and is suitable as a functional food.

Nutritional and Medical importance of gamma linolenic acid

Article

Feb 1992
PROG LIPID RES

D F Horrobin

The role of linoleic acid and its metabolites in the lowering of plasma cholesterol and the prevention of cardiovascular

Article

Jan 1988
INT J CARDIOL

An increase in linoleic acid intake lowers plasma cholesterol and is one of the safest methods for achieving this end. However, the amounts that must be consumed are large. Linoleic acid is metabolized via several routes and it is probable that a metabolite, rather than linoleic acid itself, is responsible for the cholesterol-lowering effect. If that metabolite could be identified, safe, drug-free, cholesterol-lowering might be achieved with much lower doses. Evidence is reviewed which suggests that a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid and/or a prostaglandin metabolite may be responsible for the cholesterol-controlling action of linoleic acid. Such metabolites may be effective also in controlling other risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as elevated blood pressure and enhanced platelet aggregation. Epidemiological studies suggest that low levels of those metabolites, especially dihomogammalinolenic acid and arachidonic acid, are powerful independent risk factors for development of ischaemic heart disease. Further research in this area is urgently needed now that it is broadly accepted that cholesterol-lowering does indeed reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Factors Affecting the Relationship between Childhood and Adult Cholesterol Levels: The Muscatine Study

Article

Oct 1988

A group of 2,446 subjects initially examined at 8 to 18 years of age were reexamined as young adults of 20 to 25 or 26 to 30 years of age. Measurements of cholesterol, height, weight, and triceps skinfold thickness were obtained during childhood. Lipids, lipoprotein fractions, and family history, as well as medication, alcohol, and tobacco use, were determined during the adult examination. Elevated levels of cholesterol during childhood were associated with elevation in adult life. Obesity acquired in adolescence and the young adult years, oral contraceptive use, and cigarette smoking had deleterious effects on adult cholesterol levels and lipoprotein fractions.

Estimation of the Concentration of Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol in Plasma, Without Use of the Preparative Ultracentrifuge

Article

Jul 1972

A method for estimating the cholesterol content of the serum low-density lipoprotein fraction (Sf- 0.20)is presented. The method involves measure- ments of fasting plasma total cholesterol, tri- glyceride, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations, none of which requires the use of the preparative ultracentrifuge. Cornparison of this suggested procedure with the more direct procedure, in which the ultracentrifuge is used, yielded correlation coefficients of .94 to .99, de- pending on the patient population compared. Additional Keyph rases hyperlipoproteinemia classifi- cation #{149} determination of plasma total cholesterol, tri- glyceride, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol #{149} beta lipo proteins

Cardiovascular Medicine at the Turn of the Millennium: Triumphs, Concerns, and Opportunities

Article

Dec 1997

Eugene Braunwald

Douglas P., ZipesA. John, CammMartin, BorggrefeAlfred E., BuxtonBernard, ChaitmanMartin, FromerGabriel, GregoratosGeorge, KleinArthur J., MossRobert J., MyerburgSilvia G., PrioriMiguel A., QuinonesDan M., RodenMichael J., SilkaCynthia, TracySidney C., SmithAlice K., JacobsCynthia D., AdamsElliott M., AntmanJeffrey L., AndersonSharon A., HuntJonathan L., HalperinRick, NishimuraJoseph P., OrnatoRichard L., PageBarbara, RiegelSilvia G., PrioriJean-Jacques, BlancAndrzej, BudajA. John, CammVeronica, DeanJaap W., DeckersCatherine, DespresKenneth, DicksteinJohn, LekakisKeith, McGregorMarco, MetraJoao, MoraisAdy, OsterspeyJuan Luis, TamargoJosé Luis, Zamorano. (2006) ACC/AHA/ESC 2006 Guidelines for Management of Patients With Ventricular Arrhythmias and the Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death. Journal of the American College of Cardiology 48, e247-e346 CrossRef Douglas P., ZipesA. John, CammMartin, BorggrefeAlfred E., BuxtonBernard, ChaitmanMartin, FromerGabriel, GregoratosGeorge, KleinArthur J., MossRobert J., MyerburgSilvia G., PrioriMiguel A., QuinonesDan M., RodenMichael J., SilkaCynthia, TracySidney C., SmithAlice K., JacobsCynthia D., AdamsElliott M., AntmanJeffrey L., AndersonSharon A., HuntJonathan L., HalperinRick, NishimuraJoseph P., OrnatoRichard L., PageBarbara, RiegelSilvia G., PrioriJean-Jacques, BlancAndrzej, BudajA. John, CammVeronica, DeanJaap W., DeckersCatherine, DespresKenneth, DicksteinJohn, LekakisKeith, McGregorMarco, MetraJoao, MoraisAdy, OsterspeyJuan Luis, TamargoJosé Luis, Zamorano. (2006) ACC/AHA/ESC 2006 Guidelines for Management of Patients With Ventricular Arrhythmias and the Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death—Executive Summary. Journal of the American College of Cardiology 48, 1064-1108 CrossRef

The hypolipidaemic effects of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) supplementation in a Cretan population: A prospective study

Abstract

No full-text available