Search Results (504)

This study assessed the possible pharmacological effects of Chlorella vulgaris (Cg), Spirulina platensis (St), and silymarin (Sl) against thioacetamide (TA)-induced cardiotoxicity in rats, with a focus on their antioxidant, cardioprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties. The following is the random grouping of sixty male rats into six groups of ten animals each: the control (negative control), TA-intoxicated group (positive control; 300 mg/kg body weight (BW)), Sl + TA group (100 mg Sl/kg BW + TA), St + TA group (400 mg St/kg BW + TA), Cg + TA (400 mg Cg/kg BW + TA), and St + Cg + TA group (400 St + 400 Cg mg/kg BW + TA) were all administered for 30 days. At the start of the study, groups 2 through 6 were administered TA intraperitoneally at a dosage of 300 mg/kg BW for two consecutive days, with a 24 h gap between each dose, to induce cardiac damage. Blood samples were obtained to measure hematological parameters and perform biochemical assays, including lipid profiles and cardiac enzymes. For histopathology and immunohistochemistry determination, tissue samples were acquired. The current findings showed that TA injection caused hematological alterations and cardiac injury, as evidenced by greater serum levels of troponin I, creatine kinase-MB, and total creatine kinase (p < 0.05), as well as significantly elevated serum malondialdehyde and decreased serum total antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05) concentrations. Moreover, an increase in blood low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol concentration (p < 0.05) was recorded in the TA group. There were alterations in the heart tissue’s histological structure of the TA group compared to the control ones. These alterations were characterized by vacuolar degeneration of myocytes, loss of cross striation, coagulative necrosis, and fibrosis of interstitial tissue, which was ameliorated by the supplementation of SI, St, and Cg. The TA-intoxicated group showed weak expression of B-cell lymphoma protein 2 (p < 0.05) and strong immunoreactivity of tumor necrosis factor-α and B-cell lymphoma protein 2-associated X (p < 0.05). However, the groups receiving Sl, St, and Cg experienced the opposite. The administration of Sl, St, Cg, and St + Cg along with TA significantly improved and restored (p < 0.05) erythrogram indices, including RBCs, hemoglobin, total leukocytic count, lymphocytes, and monocyte, to the normal control values. The administration of Sl, St, and Cg alleviated the cardiotoxicity caused by TA via reducing oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, and apoptosis in heart tissue. In summary, the current findings suggest that the treatment with Sl, St, and Cg was beneficial in ameliorating and reducing the cardiotoxicity induced by TA in rats. Full article

Neurodegenerative diseases are linked to the process of neurodegeneration. This can be caused by several mechanisms, including inflammation and accumulation of reactive oxygen species. Despite their high incidence, there is still no effective treatment or cure for these diseases. Cyanobacteria have been seen as a possible source for new compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential, such as polysaccharides (sacran), phycobiliproteins (phycocyanin) and lipopeptides (honaucins and malyngamides), which can be interesting to combat neurodegeneration. As a promising case of success, Arthrospira (formerly Spirulina) has revealed a high potential for preventing neurodegeneration. Additionally, advantageous culture conditions and sustainable production of cyanobacteria, which are allied to the development of genetic, metabolic, and biochemical engineering, are promising. The aim of this review is to compile and highlight research on the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of cyanobacteria with focus on the application as neuroprotective agents. Also, a major goal is to address essential features that brand cyanobacteria as an ecoefficient and economically viable option, linking health to sustainability. Full article

The development of efficient photocatalysts is crucial in addressing water pollution concerns, specifically in the removal of organic dyes from wastewater. In this context, the use of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) might represent a method to achieve high dye degradation efficiencies. On the other hand, the classical Ag NP production process involves several reactants and operating conditions, which make it poorly sustainable. In the present work, Ag NPs were synthesized according to a new sustainable process involving the use of natural extracts of Spirulina platensis and milder operating conditions. The material was also calcined to determine the influence of organic content on the properties of Ag NPs. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis displayed the AgCl and Ag phases with a crystalline size of 11.79 nm before calcination. After calcination, only the Ag phase was present with an increased crystalline size of 24.60 nm. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the capping role of the metabolites from the extract. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) revealed the spherical or quasi-spherical morphologies with agglomeration due to the calcination. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and Thermogravimetric (TGA) analyses further confirmed the involvement of metabolites in the synthesis of Ag NPs. The optical changes in the products were observed in a UV-Vis analysis. The Ag NPs were tested for their photocatalytic activity against the laboratory dye brilliant blue r in visible light in various conditions. The highest degradation efficiency of 81.9%, with a k_app value of 0.00595 min⁻¹, was observed in alkaline medium after 90 min of light irradiation. Full article

The dietary presence of feed additives is crucial for boosting fish growth and immunity. Accordingly, this feeding trial aimed to investigate the effects of the separate and concurrent dietary supplementation of Spirulina platensis (SP) and bitter lemon (Citrus limon) peel essential oil (LEO) on the growth, immunity, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Four groups of male Nile tilapia were employed. The first group (control) was given the basal diet, while the second and third groups received the basal diet supplemented with LEO extract (1%) and SP (1 g/kg diet), respectively. The fourth group received the basal diet supplemented with a mix of LEO (1%) and SP at 1 g/kg. After two months of feeding, using LEO or/and SP improved the overall growth and immunological parameters, with their combination yielding the best outcomes. The supplementation of LEO or/and SP improved the Nile tilapia’s growth metrics and transcriptomic levels of growth-regulating genes such as (oligo-peptide transporter 1 (Pep1), growth hormone receptors 1 (GHR1), and insulin-like growth factor (IGF1). The improved growth performance was linked to significant increases in the expression levels of mucin and fat metabolism-related genes. Moreover, fish supplemented with LEO, SP, or their combination showed enhanced non-specific immunological measures, including phagocytic and lysozyme activities and the mRNA copies of its regulating genes. Additionally, remarkable increases in the antioxidant enzyme activities and the mRNA levels of their related genes were detected. The complement (C3) gene’s transcriptomic level was also significantly increased. Furthermore, the dietary supplementation of LEO, SP, or their combination improved the histological structures of the spleen, hepatopancreas, and intestine. The enhanced effects of LEO, SP, or their combination on fish immunity and growth are suggested to be due to their contents of bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Thus, using the LOE and SP blends as feed additives is recommended for better growth and immunity of Nile tilapia. Full article

Arthospira platensis and Spirulina platensis microalgae are a rich source of pro-health metabolites (% d.m.): proteins (50.0–71.3/46.0–63.0), carbohydrates (16.0–20.0/12.0–17.0), fats (0.9–14.2/6.4–14.3), polyphenolic compounds and phenols (7.3–33.2/7.8–44.5 and 4.2/0.3 mg GAE/g), and flavonoids (1.9/0.2 QUE/g) used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations. This review summarises the research on the chemical profile, therapeutic effects in dermatological problems, application of Arthrospira and Spirulina microalgae, and contraindications to their use. The pro-health properties of these microalgae were analysed based on the relevant literature from 2019 to 2024. The antiviral mechanism of microalgal activity involves the inhibition of viral replication and enhancement of immunity. The anti-acne activity is attributed to alkaloids, alkanes, phenols, alkenes, phycocyanins, phthalates, tannins, carboxylic and phthalic acids, saponins, and steroids. The antibacterial activity generally depends on the components and structure of the bacterial cell wall. Their healing effect results from the inhibition of inflammatory and apoptotic processes, reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, stimulation of angiogenesis, and proliferation of fibroblasts and keratinocytes. The photoprotective action is regulated by amino acids, phlorotannins, carotenoids, mycosporins, and polyphenols inhibiting the production of tyrosinase, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and free oxygen radicals in fibroblasts and the stimulation of collagen production. Microalgae are promising molecular ingredients in innovative formulations of parapharmaceuticals and cosmetics used in the prophylaxis and therapy of dermatological problems. This review shows the application of spirulina-based commercial skin-care products as well as the safety and contraindications of spirulina use. Furthermore, the main directions for future studies of the pro-health suitability of microalgae exerting multidirectional effects on human skin are presented. Full article

Spirulina (Arthospira platensis) is known for its rich content of natural compounds like phycocyanin, chlorophylls, carotenoids, and high protein levels, making it a nutrient-dense food. Over the past decade, research has aimed to optimize the extraction, separation, and purification of these valuable metabolites, focusing on technologies such as high-pressure processing, ultrasound-assisted extraction, and microwave-assisted extraction as well as enzymatic treatments, chromatographic precipitation, and membrane separation. In this study, various extraction methods (conventional vs. ultrasound-assisted), solvents (water vs. phosphate buffer), solvent-to-biomass ratios (1:5 vs. 1:10), and ultrafiltration (PES membrane of MWCO 3 kDa, 2 bar) were evaluated. The quantities of total protein, phycocyanin (PC), chlorophyll a (Cla), and total carotenoids (TCC) were measured. The results showed that ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) with phosphate buffer at a 1:10 ratio yielded a metabolite-rich retentate (MRR) with 37.0 ± 1.9 mg/g of PC, 617 ± 15 mg/g of protein, 0.4 ± 0.2 mg/g of Cla, and 0.15 ± 0.14 mg/g of TCC. Water extraction in the concentration process achieved the highest concentrations in MRR, with approximately 76% PC, 92% total protein, 62% Cla, and 41% TCC. These findings highlight the effective extraction and concentration processes to obtain a metabolite-rich retentate from Spirulina biomass, reducing the volume tenfold and showing potential as a functional ingredient for the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. Full article

Phycocyanin was extracted from Spirulina platensis using conventional extraction (CE), direct ultrasonic-assisted extraction (direct UAE), indirect ultrasonic-assisted extraction (indirect UAE), and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) methods at different temperatures, extraction intervals, stirring rate, and power intensities while maintaining the same algae to solvent ratio (1:15 w/v). The optimization of the extraction parameters indicated that the direct UAE yielded the highest phycocyanin concentration (29.31 ± 0.33 mg/mL) and antioxidant activity (23.6 ± 0.56 mg TE/g algae), while MAE achieved the highest purity (Rp = 0.5 ± 0.002). Based on the R_P value, phycocyanin extract obtained by MAE (1:15 w/v algae to solvent ratio, 40 min, 40 °C, and 900 rpm) was selected as active compound in an alginate-based hydrogel formulation designed as potential wound dressings. Phycocyanin extracts and loaded hydrogels were characterized by FT-IR analysis. SEM analysis confirmed a porous structure for both blank and phycocyanin loaded hydrogels, while the mechanical properties remained approximately unchanged in the presence of phycocyanin. Phycocyanin release kinetics was investigated at two pH values using Zero-order, First-order, Higuchi, and Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetics models. The Higuchi model best fitted the experimental results. The R² value at higher pH was nearly 1, indicating a superior fit compared with lower pH values. Full article

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of upcycling Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) waste collected from food packaging into a membrane for microalgae harvesting, in which membrane filtration often challenges fouling and pore blocking. The target species is Spirulina platensis, with Chlorella vulgaris as a comparison agent. The membrane was fabricated from used Styrofoam, which typically ends up as single-use food packaging waste. In this study, PVP was used as an additive at varying concentrations, from 2 wt.% to 8 wt.%. The experimental results indicated that despite varying PVP concentrations, all EPS waste membranes exhibited near-complete recovery of Spirulina platensis biomass extraction. Despite the similar harvesting efficiency, EPS/PVP-8 exhibited the largest flux of 970.5 LMH/Bar, which is twice the value of the pristine EPS waste membrane. All membranes were hydrophilic; however, hydrophobicity increased with PVP concentration. SEM micrographs revealed that PVP enlarged the membrane surface pores and improved connectivity within the membrane’s structure, ensuring efficient flow. The EPS waste membrane offers promising insights for sustainable materials and wastewater treatment. The upcycling of EPS waste into flat sheet membranes not only addresses the problem of Styrofoam waste accumulation but also paves the way to transform waste into valuable products. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study investigates the biocompatibility and physiological impacts of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) functionalized with Spirulina protein extract (SPE) on laboratory rats. The objective was to assess and compare the systemic distribution, organ accumulation, and changes in hematological and biochemical parameters between biofunctionalized and non-functionalized silver nanoparticles. Methods: AgNPs were functionalized with SPE. Adult Wistar rats were administered these nanoparticles to assess their distribution across various organs using ICP-MS analysis. Hematological and biochemical markers were measured to evaluate systemic effects. Results: Functionalized silver nanoparticles demonstrated preferential accumulation in the brain, liver, and testicles, with significant clearance observed post-administration. The persistence of AgNPs SPE in reproductive organs was established. Hematological analysis revealed moderate changes, suggesting mild immune activation. Biochemical tests indicated transient increases in liver enzymes, signaling reversible hepatic stress. Conclusions: The biofunctionalization of AgNPs with Spirulina protein extract modifies the nanoparticles’ systemic behavior and organ distribution, enhancing their biocompatibility while inducing minimal physiological stress. These findings support the potential of Spirulina-based coatings to mitigate the toxicity and enhance the therapeutic efficacy of nanomedical agents. Full article

In this study, in order to verify the effects due to the addition of spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) in a food product, a wildflower honey was analyzed in terms of chemical composition, physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity before and after the addition of the spirulina. HS-SPME/GC–MS and HPLC/UV were applied to carry out the chemical analyses. The obtained results demonstrated that the volatile profile and also the sugar content were significantly influenced by the addition of spirulina, showing significant qualitative and quantitative differences compared to honey without spirulina. The increase in HMF in honey added with spirulina was significant, demonstrating that its presence could accelerate the Maillard reaction. Electrical conductivity measured by using a conductometer was also increased while the moisture content was reduced in honey enriched with spirulina. Instead, the pH value was similar between the two samples. On the other hand, honey fortification with spirulina determined a significant increase of 12.5% in the total phenolic content (TPC), and a 56.25% increase in protein content. Further, the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was also evaluated and a significant increase was determined as a result of the addition of spirulina. In conclusion, honey enriched with A. platensis was found to be characterized by a high pool of bioactive metabolites as well as significant changes in almost all the measurements performed. Full article

The development of serum-free media (SFM) is critical to advance cell culture techniques used in viral vaccine production and address the ethical concerns and contamination risks associated with fetal bovine serum (FBS). This study evaluated the effects of marine microalgal extracts and growth factor cocktails on the activity of Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) and Vero cells. Five marine microalgal species were used: Spirulina platensis (SP), Dunaliella salina (DS), Haematococcus pluvialis (HP), Nannochloropsis salina (NS), and Tetraselmis sp. (TS). DS and SP extracts significantly increased the proliferation rate of both MDCK and Vero cells. DS had a proliferation rate of 149.56% and 195.50% in MDCK and Vero cells, respectively, compared with that in serum-free medium (SFM). Notably, DS and SP extracts significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, which was 118.61% in MDCK cells and 130.08% in Vero cells for DS, and 108.72% in MDCK cells and 125.63% in Vero cells for SP, indicating a reduction in intracellular oxidative stress. Marine microalgal extracts, especially DS and SP, are feasible alternatives to FBS in cell culture as they promote cell proliferation, ensure safety, and supply essential nutrients while reducing oxidative stress. Full article

Soil salinity, which affects plant photosynthesis mechanisms, significantly limits plant productivity. Soil microorganisms, including cyanobacteria, can synthesize various exometabolites that contribute to plant growth and development in several ways. These microorganisms can increase plant tolerance to salt stress by secreting various phytoprotectants; therefore, it is highly relevant to study soil microorganisms adapted to high salinity and investigate their potential to increase plant resistance to salt stress. This study evaluated the antioxidant activity of four cyanobacterial strains: Spirulina platensis Calu-532, Nostoc sp. J-14, Trichormus variabilis K-31, and Oscillatoria brevis SH-12. Among these, Nostoc sp. J-14 presented the highest antioxidant activity. Their growth-stimulating effects under saline conditions were also assessed under laboratory conditions. These results indicate that Nostoc sp. J-14 and T. variabilis K-31 show significant promise in mitigating the harmful effects of salinity on plant size and weight. Both strains notably enhanced the growth of Oryza sativa plants under saline conditions, suggesting their potential as biostimulants to improve crop productivity in saline environments. This research underscores the importance of understanding the mechanisms by which cyanobacteria increase plant tolerance to salt stress, paving the way for sustainable agricultural practices in saline areas. Full article

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is an anticancer drug that causes infertility disorders. This study was designed to evaluate a nanoformulation of chitosan with an ethanolic extract from Spirulina platensis in terms of its protection against cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian toxicity. Nine groups of female Wistar rats were randomly assigned as follows: 1: control vehicle, 2: chitosan polymer, 3: telmisartan, 4: Spirulina platensis extract, 5: nanoformulation of the Spirulina platensis, and 6: single injection of CP; groups 7, 8, and 9 received the same treatments as those used in groups 3, 4, and 5, respectively, with a single dose of CP (200 mg/kg, I.P). The results displayed that the CP treatment decreased estradiol, progesterone, anti-mullerian hormone, and GSH content, and it downregulated PPAR-γ, Nrf-2, and HO-1 gene expression. In addition, the CP treatment caused an increase in the FSH, LH, and MDA levels. In the same manner, the protein expression of caspase-3, NF-kB, and TNF-α was upregulated in response to the CP treatment, while PPAR-γ was downregulated in comparison with the control. The rats treated with SPNPs exhibited a substantial reduction in the detrimental effects of oxidative stress and inflammation of the ovarian tissue. This study’s conclusions showed that SPNPs counteracted the effects of CP, preventing the death of ovarian follicles and restoring the gonadotropin hormone balance and normal ovarian histological appearance. Full article

The surging popularity of plant-based diets and the growing emphasis on clean-label products have intensified interest in Spirulina within the food industry. As more people adopt vegetarian, vegan, or flexitarian lifestyles, demand for plant-based protein sources has escalated. Spirulina’s high protein content and complete amino acid profile make it an ideal candidate to meet this demand. However, incorporating Spirulina into food products is not without its challenges. Its strong, earthy, or fishy taste can be off-putting to consumers and difficult to mask in food formulations. Furthermore, isolating Spirulina’s bioactive compounds while preserving their integrity is complex, especially considering the heat sensitivity of many of these components. Traditional extraction methods often employ high temperatures, which can degrade these valuable compounds. Consequently, there is a growing preference for non-thermal extraction techniques. This paper provides an overview of recent advancements in Spirulina cultivation, bioactive extraction, and their application in food products. Full article

Recent advances in research techniques have enabled rapid progress in the study of spirulina, an ancient edible cyanobacteria. Nowadays, spirulina species are classified into three genera: Spirulina, Arthrospira, and Limnospira. The latter now refers to industrially manufactured spirulina strains. Whole-genome sequencing revealed gene clusters involved in metabolite production, and the physiology of spirulina. Omics technologies demonstrated the absence of hazardous compounds in spirulina cells, confirming the safety of this biomass as a food product. Spirulina is a good source of different chemicals used in food manufacturing, food supplements, and pharmaceuticals. Spirulina’s enrichment with inherent biologically active substances makes it a potential supplier of natural products for dietary and pharmaceutical applications. Spirulina is also a prospective component of both terrestrial and space-based life support systems. Here, we review current breakthroughs in spirulina research and clarify fallacies that can be found in both professional literature and public media. Full article