Parachlorella beyerinckii accelerates lead excretion in mice

Area of Science:

• Environmental Toxicology
• Microbiology
• Bioremediation

Background:

• Lead exposure poses significant health risks due to its toxicity.
• Parachlorella beyerinckii CK-5, a microalga, has shown potential in biological applications.
• Investigating the efficacy of microalgae in mitigating heavy metal toxicity is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of Parachlorella beyerinckii powder (BP) on gastrointestinal lead absorption in mice.
• To determine the impact of BP on lead excretion and accumulation in key organs.
• To assess the in vitro lead adsorption capacity of BP.

Main Methods:

• Female ICR mice were orally administered lead acetate with or without BP.
• Lead levels in feces, blood, liver, and kidneys were measured using atomic absorption spectrometry.
• In vitro lead adsorption assays were performed using BP and its pepsin non-digestive residue (dBP).

Main Results:

• BP administration significantly increased fecal lead excretion by 17.2-27.7% compared to controls.
• Lead levels in blood, liver, and kidneys were reduced by 48-63% in BP-treated mice.
• In vitro studies showed BP adsorbed 10.6 mg of lead per 100 mg, and dBP adsorbed 6.0 mg per 100 mg.

Conclusions:

• Parachlorella beyerinckii powder effectively reduces gastrointestinal lead absorption and promotes lead excretion in mice.
• BP demonstrates significant lead adsorption capabilities, both in vivo and in vitro.
• BP holds potential as a therapeutic agent for managing lead exposure in animals and humans.