Influence of the harvesting area on the nutritional value, antioxidant and hypoglycemic properties of Spirulina platensis (Gom.) in diabetic rats (type I diabetic)

Abstract

Background: The present investigation aimed to study the effect of the harvesting area on the nutritional value, antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of Spirulina (Spirulina platensis) from five zones in type 1 diabetic rats.

Methods: Spirulina platensis was collected in dried forms from five zones (Lake Bodou, Lake Kolodorum, Lake Lactir, Lake Touffou and the wadi  of  Rombou) and then subjected to hydroethanolic extraction (50-50). The nutritional value, the antioxidant potential total phenols and flavonoid contents of the extracts were evaluated. The extracts were subsequently administered by oral intubation to diabetic rats induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg). The fasting blood glucose was weekly taken during the three-week experimental period. Afterwards, blood was collected and the serum prepared for measurement of biochemical parameters.

Results: The results showed that the spirulina extracts from Touffou Lake (SP4) has the highest level of protein (71g/100g of dried matter (DM)), carbohydrates (23g/100g DM), fibres (1.5g/100g DM) and minerals. Spirulina extracts from Touffou Lake (SP4) and from Rambou wadi   (SP5) have the highest antiradical and antioxidant activity. They also caused a significant reduction in glycemia, serum triglyceride, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, serum transaminases (ALAT and ASAT), creatinine, urea, and total protein levels. Activities of catalase and peroxidase in the tissus were significantly increased for the group receiving spirulina extract from Lake Touffou compared to other groups.

Conclusions: The nutritional value, the antioxidant and the hypoglycemic potentials of spirulina are influenced by the harvesting area.