Effects of spirulina platensis on the improvement of hepatorenal toxicity induced by iron oxide in wistar rats using biochemical and histological methods

Abstract

Background: Iron is a key element in different aspects of life, with a remarkable role in the formation of cell structures. Iron is a hazardous substance with potential toxicity due to involvement in oxidation-reduction reactions, causing oxidative stress. Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate the protection induced by Spirulina platensis against the toxicity caused by iron in Wistar rats. Methods: This experimental research was conducted on 32 adult male rats of the Wistar breed (mean weight: 200_20 g). The animals were divided into four groups of control (group one), iron oxide intraperitoneal administration (group two; 15 mg/kg bw/day), oral S. platensis and iron oxide administration (group three; 400 mg/kg bw/day), and daily S. platensis (group four). Treatments continued for 16 days. In addition, serum, renal, and hepatic tissue examinations were carried out. Results: According to the biomechanical tests, liver and kidney biomarkers significantly increased in group two (P_0.05). On the other hand, total antioxidant capacity and thiol protein reduced, while malondialdehyde increased in this group. According to the results of histopathology in group two, there were congested and dilated portal and central veins, while inflammatory areas were also observed in the liver. In addition, casts and acute tubular necrosis were detected in the urinary tubules in the renal examination. In group three, S. platensis and iron oxide-enhanced anti-oxidative properties, resulting in the treatment of liver and kidney functions and tissues. Conclusions: According to the results, Spirulina platensis can overcome the damaging effects of iron on the hepatorenal system of rats and protects rats’ liver and kidneys against iron-induced toxicity.