Résumé:
In recent years, the increase in cases of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), in particular
myocardial infarction (MI), has become a global concern due to its high mortality rates,
highlighting the need for more effective treatment with fewer side effects. Spirulina
(Arthrospira platensis), a microalgae rich in phycocyanins, has the potential to prevent
cardiovascular diseases, by offering protection against oxidative stress. The cardioprotective
properties of spirulina were evaluated in a rat model of isoproterenol-induced myocardial
infarction (ISO). The antioxidant activity of the spirulina was evaluated by the 1,1-diphenyl-
2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging test and the ferric reducing antioxidant
power test (FRAP). Male Wistar rats received spirulina orally for 15 consecutive days (500
mg/kg/day), followed by a subcutaneous injection of ISO (150 mg/kg) for two consecutive
days. Results indicate that spirulina effectively have an antioxidant activity in vitro. ISO-
treated rats showed a significant increase in troponin level (TROP) and an
hypercholesterolemia, as well as reduced cellular pool of reduced glutathione (GSH), and
decreased enzymatic activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) in cardiac
tissue. A pre-treatment with spirulina has significantly protected the heart, restoring
antioxidant statut and decreasing serum torponine and cholesterol levels. The
histopathological analysis revealed various degrees of cardiac lesions in ISO-treated group,
whereas the groups treated with spirulina presented milder lesions and provided good
protection. These finding were comfirmed by the significante reduction of infarct size in
spirulina-treated group using TTC staining method. Spirulina seems to be a promising
substance for cardioprotection against ISO-induced myocardial infarction.
