Effects of Spirulina platensis microalgae on renal function and antioxidant defence in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes

Background

Spirulina platensis microalgae (SPM), a natural antioxidant, is among the marine algae-containing compounds that are postulated to possess an anti-diabetic effect. This research aimed to assess the potential effect of SPM solution on blood glucose levels, kidney functions, and antioxidant defences in rats with diabetes induced by streptozotocin (STZ).

Methodology

Forty adult male Albino Wister rats were equally distributed into five groups. Group (1) included rats that were treated as a negative control group, the remaining groups included rats that were administrated STZ via injections to induce diabetes which were then treated for four weeks with the following scheme: group (2) diabetic positive control rats; groups (3,4 and 5) diabetic rats received oral SPM (400 ml/kg/day), Glimepiride (GI) (600 µg/kg/day); and SPM (400 ml/kg/day) + GI (600 µg/kg/day) respectively. On the final day of the experiment, blood samples were collected to estimate the blood glucose level, and kidney function parameters in addition to tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Interleukins (IL-1α), and (IL-6). Histopathological examination was done for the kidneys.

Results

SPM and/ or GI administration significantly reduced blood glucose levels, Glycated haemoglobin HbA1c, kidney function parameters, TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-6 in diabetic rats, and elevated insulin levels compared to the positive control group (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The hypoglycemic effect of Spirulina has been shown in rats with diabetes caused by STZ. This suggests that Spirulina could potentially serve as a novel therapeutic approach for managing diabetes and its associated consequences. The availability, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness of Spirulina further support its potential as a viable treatment option.