Effects of the marine microalgae Isochrysis galbana and Nannochloropsis oculata in diabetic rats

Abstract

Microalgae contain biologically active compounds with potential applications in functional foods and nutraceuticals. The effects of the microalgae Isochrysis galbana and Nannochloropsis oculata on glucose, body weight, lipids, lipoproteins, nitrogen compounds and intestine histopathology in a diabetic rat model were evaluated. A preliminary lethal dose test indicated no acute toxicity from the microalgae at the tested doses. In the randomized biological model, the microalgae produced weight loss. The I. galbana diabetic group exhibited decreased glucose, triacylglycerol and cholesterol values, as well as higher lactic acid bacteria (LAB) counts and only minor signs of intestinal inflammation. The N. oculata diabetic group exhibited no changes in clinical values, a lower LAB counts and intestinal damage. Both microalgae increased low density lipoproteins and decreased high density lipoproteins in healthy and diabetic rats. Further research will be needed to evaluate the possible uses of these marine microalgae.

Keywords

• Isochrysis galbana
• Nannochloropsis oculata
• Marine microalgae
• Diabetes mellitus
• Polyunsaturated fatty acids
• Polysaccharides