Hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing effects of spirulina in rats.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing potentials of spirulina utilizing a rat model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl) was used to induce hepatotoxicity, while carrageenan was employed to induce hind paw inflammation. The wound healing capability was assessed by making a 6 mm round wound with a biopsy punch on the dorsal interscapular area of each rat. The animals were fed a diet mixed with spirulina at dosages of 250 and 500 mg.kgbwt. Paw thickness measurements were taken at 1, 3, and 6 h after carrageenan injection.

RESULTS

Intraperitoneal injection of CCl leads to hepatotoxicity, as evidenced by significantly elevated serum levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase. Treatment with spirulina markedly reduced these biochemical markers. CCl-induced hepatic cellular necrosis, central vein congestion, and steatosis were notably improved following spirulina administration. Additionally, spirulina treatment diminished paw edema and shortened wound closure time in a dose-dependent manner. Histopathological analysis of the inflamed paw revealed massive infiltration of inflammatory cells and thickening of the epidermis, both of which showed significant improvement with spirulina treatment. The anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects of spirulina were comparable to those of indomethacin, an established anti-inflammatory drug.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrate that possesses beneficial properties in counteracting hepatotoxicity and inflammation. Additionally, it exhibited significant wound-healing effects in rat models. These results reinforce the potential health advantages of spirulina as an effective functional food.