Profile of Hepatic enzymes in Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) Treated with Spirulina of Ivorian Origin

Abstract

Spirulina is among the most widely used dietary supplements worldwide. However, its safety regarding certain organs has not been sufficiently documented. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of spirulina produced in Côte d’Ivoire on selected hepatic enzymes in rabbits. Three groups of rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), each containing three animals, received daily intraperitoneal doses of spirulina extract (100, 250, and 700 mg/kg body weight) for three consecutive days. A control group received only a saline solution. Blood samples were collected at the beginning of the experiment and then weekly for three weeks to determine the activities of five enzymes: transaminases (alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase), gamma-glutamyl transferase, alkaline phosphatase, and lactate dehydrogenase, using conventional methods. The experiment lasted 21 days. The results showed that the mean ALT activities in all groups, initially ranging between 57 and 75.66 IU/L, did not vary significantly over the 21- day study period, regardless of the spirulina dose administered. Similar findings were observed for the other enzymes. This study reports that daily intake of spirulina of Ivorian origin does not increase hepatic enzyme profiles; on the contrary, it may protect organs involved in their excretion, which could contribute to its nutritional properties. It also indicates that this nutritional supplement shows good hepatic biotolerance. Future studies will aim to evaluate the safety and long-term effects of spirulina, using a larger number of animals, extended administration, and detailed morphological analyses of the organ.