Spirulina improves antioxidant status by reducing oxidative stress in rabbits fed a high-cholesterol diet

Study the antioxidant effects of blue-green algae Spirulina extract on ROS and MDA production in human lung cancer cells

In order to study the effects of Spirulina, Arthrospira platensis, two cell lines of A549 and HFF were treated with the concentration of IC50 for 24 h. MTT analysis showed that the highest decrease in viability of cells happened at the concentration of 500 μg/ml. The necrosis, releases of LDH, produced DCFH, and Lipid peroxidation were higher in the cancer cell lines in comparison to normal cells. Results showed that the extract affected the cell cycle of the A549 cell line. Also, the algal extract had concentration-dependent antioxidant activity. Also, the production of malonyl dialdehyde was significantly higher in treated cells and there was a significant relationship between produced MDA and ROS. Results showed that A. platensis extract had a remarkable effect on the lung cancer cell cycle and arrest the cell cycle in phase G2; so the cells didn't enter phase M and the proliferation of cancer cells prevented. Furthermore, according to the higher production of ROS and MDA in treated A549 cancer cell lines, it could be concluded that this algal extract could be considered as a natural product with anticancer activity against lung cancer cells.

Arthrospira platensis accelerates the formation of an endothelial cell monolayer and protects against endothelial cell detachment after bacterial contamination

Within the last years a comprehensive number of scientific studies demonstrated beneficial effect of Arthropira platensis (AP) as dietary supplement due to a high content of proteins, minerals and vitamins. Positive effects like promoting the immune system, reducing inflammation and an anti-oxidant capacity are reported. In this study, the effect of an aqueous AP extract on primary human venous endothelial cells (HUVEC) was investigated. In addition, the effect of AP on HUVEC treated with a bacterial toxin (lipopolysaccharide, LPA), inducing an activation of HUVEC and cellular detachment, was analyzed. Depending on the concentration of AP extract a significantly accelerated formation of an endothelial cell monolayer was observed. Furthermore, the detachment of HUVEC after LPA addition was dramatically reduced by AP. In conclusion, the data are promising and indicatory for an application of Arthrospira platensis in the clinical field.

Whole Alga, Algal Extracts, and Compounds as Ingredients of Functional Foods: Composition and Action Mechanism Relationships in the Prevention and Treatment of Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major systemic disease which involves impaired pancreatic function and currently affects half a billion people worldwide. Diet is considered the cornerstone to reduce incidence and prevalence of this disease. Algae contains fiber, polyphenols, ω-3 PUFAs, and bioactive molecules with potential antidiabetic activity. This review delves into the applications of algae and their components in T2DM, as well as to ascertain the mechanism involved (e.g., glucose absorption, lipids metabolism, antioxidant properties, etc.). PubMed, and Google Scholar databases were used. Papers in which whole alga, algal extracts, or their isolated compounds were studied in in vitro conditions, T2DM experimental models, and humans were selected and discussed. This review also focuses on meat matrices or protein concentrate-based products in which different types of alga were included, aimed to modulate carbohydrate digestion and absorption, blood glucose, gastrointestinal neurohormones secretion, glycosylation products, and insulin resistance. As microbiota dysbiosis in T2DM and metabolic alterations in different organs are related, the review also delves on the effects of several bioactive algal compounds on the colon/microbiota-liver-pancreas-brain axis. As the responses to therapeutic diets vary dramatically among individuals due to genetic components, it seems a priority to identify major gene polymorphisms affecting potential positive effects of algal compounds on T2DM treatment.

Phytochemical and Biological Evaluation of a Newly Designed Nutraceutical Self-Nanoemulsifying Self-Nanosuspension for Protection and Treatment of Cisplatin Induced Testicular Toxicity in Male Rats

The incorporation of cisplatin (CP) as a cytotoxic antineoplastic agent in most chemotherapeutic protocols is a challenge due to its toxic effect on testicular tissues. Natural compounds present a promising trend in research, so a new nutraceutical formulation (NCF) was designed to diminish CP spermatotoxicity. A combination of three nutraceutical materials, 250 mg Spirulina platensis powder (SP), 25 mg Tribulus terrestris L. extract (TT), and 100 mg fish oil (FO) were formulated in self-nanoemulsifying self-nanosuspension (SNESNS). SP was loaded into the optimized self-nanoemulsifying system (30% FO, 50% span 80/cremophor EL and 20% isopropanol) and mixed with TT aqueous solution to form SNESNS. For the SP, phytochemical profiling revealed the presence of valuable amounts of fatty acids (FAs), amino acids, flavonoids, polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and particle size analysis confirmed the formation of nanoemulsion-based nanosuspension upon dilution. Method validation of the phytochemical constituents in NCF has been developed. Furthermore, NCF was biologically evaluated on male Wistar rats and revealed the improvement of spermatozoa, histopathological features, and biochemical markers over the CP and each ingredient group. Our findings suggest the potential of NCF with SNESNS as a delivery system against CP-induced testicular toxicity in male rats.

Lactic Acid Fermentation of Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) in a Vegetal Soybean Drink for Developing New Functional Lactose-Free Beverages

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the suitability of Arthrospira platensis F&M-C256 (spirulina) biomass in a vegetal soybean drink or in water, as substrate for lactic acid fermentation by the probiotic bacterium Lactiplantibacillus plantarum ATCC 8014 (LAB8014) and to evaluate the fermented products in terms of bacteria content and organic acids content, biochemical composition, total phenolics, and phycocyanin content, in vitro digestibility, in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity. After 72 h of fermentation, a bacterial concentration of about 10.5 log CFU mL^–1 in the broths containing the soybean drink + spirulina + LAB8014 (SD + S + LAB8014) or water + spirulina + LAB8014 (W + S + LAB8014) was found. Lactic acid concentration reached similar values (about 1.7 g L^–1) in the two broths, while a different acetic acid concentration between SD + S + LAB8014 and W + S + LAB8014 broths was observed (7.7 and 4.1 g L^–1, respectively). A. platensis biomass was shown to be a suitable substrate for LAB8014 growth. After fermentation, both broths contained a high protein content (>50%). In both broths, total phenolics, in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity increased after fermentation (+35, +20, and +93% on average, respectively), while phycocyanin content decreased (−40% on average). Digestibility of W + S + LAB8014 broth statistically improved after fermentation. This study highlights the potential of A. platensis F&M-C256 biomass as a substrate for the production of new functional lactose-free beverages.

Spirulina Enhances Bone Modeling in Growing Male Rats by Regulating Growth-Related Hormones

In recent years, growth hormone deficiency in children has been treated with hormone therapy despite the possible significant side effects. Therefore, it was deemed beneficial to develop functional foods or dietary supplements for safely improving children's growth. Spirulina platensis is known for its high antioxidant, anti-aging, anti-cancer, and immunity-enhancing properties, as well as its high digestibility and high protein content, but little has been reported about its influence on bone development in children with a normal supply of protein. In this study, we evaluated the effects of spirulina on the bone metabolism and antioxidant profiles of three-week-old growing male rats. The animals were divided into four groups (n = 17 per group) and were fed AIN93G diets with 0% (control), 30% (SP30), 50% (SP50), and 70% (SP70) of casein protein replaced by spirulina, respectively, for seven weeks. We observed that spirulina enhanced bone growth and bone strength by stimulating parathyroid hormone and growth hormone activities, as well its increased antioxidant activity. These results indicate that spirulina provides a suitable dietary supplement and alternative protein source with antioxidant benefits for growth improvement in early developmental stages.

The effect of Arthrospira platensis (spirulina) addition on the content of selected mineral elements, carotenes, and antioxidant potential in alginate gel beads

Alginate, a heteropolysaccharide extracted from brown algae Laminaria digitata, has non-toxic status and good physical and chemical properties, was used in this study for encapsulation of the cyanobacterium Arthrospira platensis. Results indicated that adding A. platensis to alginate beads increased the level of mineral elements: magnesium by 55–60 mg/kg, iron by 38–40 mg/kg, and iodine by 88–107 μg/kg, as compared to respective control samples without microalgae addition. Adding A. platensis within alginate beads resulted in an increased antioxidative potential and consequent higher inhibition of the radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) by 15–25% compared to the respective control alginate beads. Finally, the content of beta-carotene in alginate beads fortified with A. platensis biomass amounts on average to 51 μg/g. Due to their health-promoting potential, alginate beads enriched with A. platensis biomass can, therefore, be used as a functional ingredient in the nutraceutical sector.

Effects of spirulina supplementation on lipid metabolism disorder, oxidative stress caused by high-energy dietary in Hu sheep

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of spirulina supplementation in a high-energy (HE) diet on lipid metabolism, oxidative status and immunity in Hu lambs. The lambs were assigned to two groups receiving either a standard diet (ST) or a HE diet. Each group was divided into three subgroups: no spirulina supplementation (control), 1% spirulina supplementation, or 3% spirulina supplementation. The body fat, serum cholesterol, triacylglycerol and oxidative stress increased in lambs fed the HE diet. However, 3% spirulina supplementation in the HE diet reduced above parameters and enhanced antioxidant capacity, including increased SOD activity and T-AOC content in serum and Longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL). Additionally, lambs receiving 3% spirulina supplementation showed an improvement in immunity-related parameters, including increased IgG concentration in serum and red and white blood cell counts. In conclusion, 3% spirulina supplementation in HE diet ameliorated lipid metabolic disorder and oxidative stress caused by a HE diet.

Chlorella vulgaris supplementation effects on performances, oxidative stress and antioxidant genes expression in liver and ovaries of New Zealand White rabbits

Oxidative stress is an exclusive biochemical complication affecting reproduction; hence, dietary antioxidant supplementation for its attenuation is a required nutrition - reproduction improvement strategy. On this background, Chlorella vulgaris (a natural antioxidant) was supplemented to grower female rabbits to maturity. The rabbits were thirty-five in number randomly distributed into five experimental groups in a completely randomized design. Control group was fed only basal feed while treatment groups were fed diets containing 40 %, 60 %, 80 % and 100 % Chlorella vulgaris biomass as T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively at 500 mg per animal body weight (kg) along with the basal feed daily. Performance records were obtained, blood was collected, and at the end uterus, ovaries and liver were removed from sacrificed animals for analysis. Serum, uterus and liver oxidative stress status were determined while RNA isolated from liver and ovaries samples were used for antioxidant genes expression analysis. Oxidative stress status and antioxidant enzymes activities were determined using chemical assays while antioxidant gene expression levels were determined using real-time quantitative PCR system. There was significant difference in feed intake (p < 0.014), final body weights (p < 0.008), empty carcass weights (p < 0.001) and commercial carcass weights (p < 0.001) of the rabbits as results of the microalgae supplementation. There was also significant difference in malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations (p < 0.050), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (p < 0.050) and protein carbonyl (PCO) concentrations (p < 0.050) due to the supplementation of the microalgae; in addition, supplementation of the microalgae significantly improved activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) (p < 0.050), catalase (CAT) (p < 0.050) and reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration (p < 0.050). Furthermore, there was significant difference in relative expression of primary antioxidant genes sod1 (p < 0.050) and gpx1 (p < 0.050); however, there was no significant difference in relative expression of bre (p > 0.050) and ucp1 (p > 0.050). The study concluded from the outcomes stated above that supplementation of microalgae Chlorella vulgaris improved performances of rabbits through attenuation of oxidative stress, enhancement of antioxidant enzymes activities as well as up-regulation of primary antioxidant genes. Hence, it was recommended as dietary supplement for protection against oxidative stress and improved productivity in rabbits and other food producing mammalian species. In addition, further studies into assessment of its effects on expression of transcripts and immune modulation genes in rabbits and other animals is warranted as future studies in order to established its potential as beneficial nutraceutical for animals and human.

Evidence of Some Natural Products with Antigenotoxic Effects. Part 2: Plants, Vegetables, and Natural Resin

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The agents capable of causing damage to genetic material are known as genotoxins and, according to their mode of action, are classified into mutagens, carcinogens, or teratogens. Genotoxins are also involved in the pathogenesis of several chronic degenerative diseases, including hepatic, neurodegenerative, and cardiovascular disorders; diabetes; arthritis; cancer; chronic inflammation; and ageing. In recent decades, researchers have found novel bioactive phytocompounds able to counteract the effects of physical and chemical mutagens. Several studies have shown the antigenotoxic potential of different fruits and plants (Part 1). In this review (Part 2), we present a research overview conducted on some plants and vegetables (spirulina, broccoli, chamomile, cocoa, ginger, laurel, marigold, roselle, and rosemary), which are frequently consumed by humans. In addition, an analysis of some phytochemicals extracted from those vegetables and the analysis of a resin (propolis),whose antigenotoxic power has been demonstrated in various tests, including the Ames assay, sister chromatid exchange, chromosomal aberrations, micronucleus, and comet assay, was also performed.

Safety evaluations and lipid-lowering activity of an Arthrospira platensis enriched diet: A 1-month study in rats

Arthrospira platensis (A. platensis) is worldwide consumed as dietary supplement, but its use in the form of whole biomass for food purposes may raise toxicity concerns. The aim of this study was to preliminarily evaluate the safety of an A. platensis F&M-C256-enriched diet (20% (weight/weight) corresponding to 12g/kg body weight/day), administered to rats for 1month. A. platensis F&M-C256-enriched diet was well tolerated: behavior, body weight, food consumption and growth curves were not affected; no discomfort, no deaths and no physical signs related to the treatment were observed during the administration period; food daily consumption and apparent digestibility were comparable to those of the standard laboratory AIN-76 control diet. Daily water consumption and urine excretion were, on the contrary, significantly higher (27.18±1.24 vs 21.53±1.68ml and 12.63±0.99 vs 7.00±1.29ml respectively), probably because of a slight increase in sodium intake in rats fed A. platensis F&M-C256-enriched diet. Biochemical markers of kidney and liver function were not varied but a significant increase in cholesterol-HDL and a decreased plasma triglycerides level was observed in rats fed A. platensis F&M-C256-enriched diet. These last changes were associated with an increased fecal lipids excretion and liver PPAR-α gene expression. These results indicate that A. platensis F&M-C256 is likely safe and well tolerated even at a high dosage in rodents and suggest that it may represent a promising functional food for preventing or even for managing dyslipidemias.

Hepatoprotective efficacy of Spirulina platensis against lead-induced oxidative stress and genotoxicity in catfish; Clarias gariepinus

Lead (Pb) is a toxic environmental pollutant that induces a broad range of biochemical and physiological hazards in living organisms. We investigated the possible hepatoprotective effects of Spirulina platensis (SP) in counteracting the Pb-induced oxidative damage. Ninety-six adult African catfish were allocated into four equal groups. The 1st group (control) fed basal diet while the 2nd group (Pb-treated) fed on basal diet and exposed to 1mg Pb(NO₃)₂/L. The 3rd and 4th groups fed SP-supplemented basal diets at levels of 0.25% and 0.5%, respectively and exposed to Pb. Serum samples were used to analyze hepatic function biomarkers, electrolytes, and oxidant and antioxidant status. Lipid peroxidation and DNA fragmentation were determined in the liver tissues. Pb exposure induced hepatic dysfunction, electrolytes (Na⁺, K⁺, Ca⁺², and Cl^-) imbalance, as well a significant decrease in GSH content, and LDH, AChE, SOD, CAT and GST enzymes activity. SP supplementation reverted these biochemical and genetic alterations close to control levels. This amelioration was higher with 0.5% SP and at the 4th week of exposure, showing concentration- and time-dependency. Thus, the current study suggests that SP could protect the catfish liver against lead-induced injury by scavenging ROS, sustaining the antioxidant status and diminishing DNA oxidative damage. The dietary inclusion of SP can be used as a promising protective agent to counteract oxidative stress-mediated diseases and toxicities.

Preclinical antitoxic properties of Spirulina (Arthrospira)

CONTEXT

Spirulina (Arthrospira) exerts a wide spectrum of pharmacological activities which are mainly attributed to its antioxidant effect. However, Spirulina has also been reported (both in preclinical and in clinical scenarios) to exhibit other bioactive effects, including an antitoxic potential.

OBJECTIVE

We performed a systematic review of the literature, conducted in TOXNET, PubMed/MEDLINE, and Science Direct-Scopus; all available years were included. Searching criteria included the effects of Spirulina on experimental poisonings from arsenic, cadmium, carbon tetrachloride, deltamethrin, fluoride, hexachlorocyclohexane, iron, lead, lindane, and mercury.

RESULTS

In all cases, it was established that the blue-green alga, and its isolated compounds, effectively counteracted these pollutants toxic effects on the exposed organisms. Some molecular mechanisms are proposed, although they have not been fully elucidated yet.

CONCLUSION

Spirulina could be a useful coadjuvant agent within clinical practice for treatment of these or other pollutants poisonings.

The antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory activities of Spirulina: an overview

Spirulina is a species of filamentous cyanobacteria that has long been used as a food supplement. In particular, Spirulina platensis and Spirulina maxima are the most important. Thanks to a high protein and vitamin content, Spirulina is used as a nutraceutical food supplement, although its other potential health benefits have attracted much attention. Oxidative stress and dysfunctional immunity cause many diseases in humans, including atherosclerosis, cardiac hypertrophy, heart failure, and hypertension. Thus, the antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory activities of these microalgae may play an important role in human health. Here, we discuss the antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory activities of Spirulina in both animals and humans, along with the underlying mechanisms. In addition, its commercial and regulatory status in different countries is discussed as well. Spirulina activates cellular antioxidant enzymes, inhibits lipid peroxidation and DNA damage, scavenges free radicals, and increases the activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase. Notably, there appears to be a threshold level above which Spirulina will taper off the antioxidant activity. Clinical trials show that Spirulina prevents skeletal muscle damage under conditions of exercise-induced oxidative stress and can stimulate the production of antibodies and up- or downregulate the expression of cytokine-encoding genes to induce immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory responses. The molecular mechanism(s) by which Spirulina induces these activities is unclear, but phycocyanin and β-carotene are important molecules. Moreover, Spirulina effectively regulates the ERK1/2, JNK, p38, and IκB pathways. This review provides new insight into the potential therapeutic applications of Spirulina and may provide new ideas for future studies.

In Vivo Antioxidant and Hypolipidemic Effects of Fermented Mung Bean on Hypercholesterolemic Mice

Legumes have previously been reported with hypolipidemic effect caused by the presence of flavonoid. This study was carried out to evaluate the antioxidant and hypolipidemic effects of fermented mung bean on hypercholesterolemic mice. Blood from all mice was collected and subjected to serum lipid and liver profiles biochemical analysis and quantitative RT-PCR for atherosclerosis related gene expressions. Besides, livers were collected for antioxidant assays and histopathology evaluation. Fermented mung bean was found to reduce the level of serum lipid and liver enzyme profiles of hypercholesterolemic mice. Furthermore, liver antioxidant and nitric oxide levels were also significantly restored by fermented mung bean in a dosage dependent manner. The gene expression study indicated that Apoe and Bcl2a1a were upregulated while Npy and Vwf expressions were downregulated after the treatment. The effects of fermented mung bean were greater than nonfermented mung bean. These results indicated that fermented mung bean possessed antioxidants that lead to its hypolipidemic effect on hypercholesterolemic mice.

Effects of fish oil and spirulina on oxidative stress and inflammation in hypercholesterolemic hamsters

Background

Altered plasma lipids, oxidative stress, and inflammation have been involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. Fish oil has shown inconclusive effects on plasma lipids and oxidative stress. Spirulina has both cholesterol lowering and antioxidant properties. However, the effect of fish oil and spirulina on hypercholesterolemia has not been studied. We investigated the effects of fish oil, spirulina, and their combination on hypercholesterolemia.

Methods

The hamsters were divided into 7 groups: control, high cholesterol (HF), fish oil (post FO), spirulina (post SP), and a combination of fish oil and spirulina (post SF, pre-SF, and HF + SF) groups. The HF and HF + SF groups were given a high cholesterol diet for 8 weeks. The post FO, post SP, and post SF groups were given a high cholesterol diet for 4 weeks and then the treatment for 4 weeks. The pre-SF group was given the combined treatment for 4 weeks and then a high cholesterol diet for 4 weeks.

Results

The HF and HF + SF groups altered plasma lipids, increased oxidative stress, inhibited antioxidants, and increased inflammation. While the post FO group increased plasma lipids and was more atherogenic. The vice versa was observed in spirulina-treated group. Both the post SP and post SF groups inhibited oxidative stress and increased antioxidant status, and post FO and post SP diets regulated pro-inflammatory cytokines to near the control levels.

Conclusions

Both single treatment of fish oil or spirulina inhibit oxidative stress and inflammation. Treatment with a combination of fish oil and spirulina (post SF) may be beneficial for diet-induced hypercholesterolemic hamsters.

The effect of Arthrospira platensis capsules on CD4 T-cells and antioxidative capacity in a randomized pilot study of adult women infected with human immunodeficiency virus not under HAART in Yaoundé, Cameroon

Dietary supplements are often used to improve the nutritional status of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV). Arthrospira platensis (Asp), also known as Spirulina, is a cyanobacterium rich in proteins and micronutrients. Cell and animal trials described immune-modulating, antiretroviral and antioxidant activities. This pilot study describes the effects of the supplementation of 5 g/day of Asp on a pre-highly-active antiretroviral therapy (pre-HAART), HIV-infected, adult female population. It was conducted as a three-month randomized controlled trial (RCT) that compared a cup supplementation of five grams/day of Asp with a placebo of equal protein content and energy. The study included 73 HIV-infected women. The immediate outcome variables were CD4 T-cells, viral load and immune activation by CD8 T-cells expressing CD38. The antioxidant status was assessed by way of the total antioxidant capacity of the serum (TAOS). The renal function was documented by way of creatinine, urea and the calculated glomerular filtration rate. Statistical analyses were carried out with non-parametric tests, and the effect size of each interaction was calculated. No differences in the immunological and virological markers between the Asp and the placebo group could be observed. In the placebo group, 21 of 30 patients (70%) developed concomitant events, while in the Asp group, only 12 of 28 patients (43%) did. Both groups registered a significant weight increase; 0.5 kg (p < 0.05) in the Asp group and 0.65 kg (p < 0.05) in the placebo group. The antioxidant capacity increase of 56 (1-98) µM for Asp was significantly different from the decrease observed in the placebo group (p < 0.001). A slight increase in the creatinine level of 0.1 g/dL (p < 0.001) was observed in the Asp group, and no effect was observed in the urea levels. The improvement of the antioxidant capacity under Asp, shown for the first time on PLHIV, could become a focus for future research on the nutritional and health effects of Spirulina. The observed slight, but significant increase of serum creatinine needs further evaluation, especially with varying doses of Asp.

Health benefits of blue-green algae: prevention of cardiovascular disease and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Blue-green algae (BGA) are among the most primitive life forms on earth and have been consumed as food or medicine by humans for centuries. BGA contain various bioactive components, such as phycocyanin, carotenoids, γ-linolenic acid, fibers, and plant sterols, which can promote optimal health in humans. Studies have demonstrated that several BGA species or their active components have plasma total cholesterol and triglyceride-lowering properties due to their modulation of intestinal cholesterol absorption and hepatic lipogenic gene expression. BGA can also reduce inflammation by inhibiting the nuclear factor κ B activity, consequently reducing the production of proinflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, BGA inhibit lipid peroxidation and have free radical scavenging activity, which can be beneficial for the protection against oxidative stress. The aforementioned effects of BGA can contribute to the prevention of metabolic and inflammatory diseases. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge of the health-promoting functions of BGA against cardiovascular disease and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, which are major health threats in the developed countries.

The hepatoprotective potential of Spirulina and vitamin C supplemention in cisplatin toxicity

Spirulina platensis is a microalgae with potent dietary phyto-antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties. We investigated the mechanism of cisplatin induced hepatotoxicity and whether this natural antioxidant provided protection against cisplatin hepatotoxicity. The study was carried out in a mice model where the animals were segregated into different groups according to their treatments, e.g. control group with no treatment, cisplatin treated, cisplatin + Spirulina treated, cisplatin + vitamin C treated and cisplatin + Spirulina + vitamin C treated. The liver marker enzymes were found to be elevated following cisplatin treatment, signifying hepatotoxicity. The supplementation of Spirulina and vitamin C could effectively bring down the levels of these enzymes. Light microscopy also showed that cisplatin treatment induced liver injury and that histopathological abnormalities were prevented by Spirulina and vitamin C supplementation. This protective effect was further substantiated by the estimation of antioxidant levels and extent of lipid peroxidation in the Spirulina, vitamin C and Spirulina + vitamin C supplemented groups as compared to cisplatin alone.