Evaluation of the protective effects of Spirulina platensis against cyclophosphamide-induced genotoxicity

Damage to normal cells is the most common limitation of cancer chemotherapy. Cyclophosphamide, one of the most widely used anticancer drugs due to its cytotoxicity, can bind to deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), causing chromosomal breaks, micronuclei, and cell death. The use of natural sources helps to prevent this damage, and Spirulina platensis is highly appreciated for its numerous bioactive compounds. This study aimed to investigate the antigenotoxic effects of Spirulina platensis powder (PoSP) on mouse bone marrow cells in vivo via a micronucleus assay.

Compared to the positive control, the administration of powder significantly reduced the PCE/PCE + NCE (polychromatic erythrocytes, normochromatic erythrocytes) ratio in treated mice. A significant increase in the percentage of MnPCE (micronucleus in polychromatic erythrocytes) in cyclophosphamide-treated bone marrow cells was observed. Compared with the positive controls, the groups treated with different doses in combination with cyclophosphamide presented a significant (p<0.0001) decrease in MnPCE in a dose-dependent manner. Compared to the positive control, PoSP significantly decreased MDA (malondialdehyde) levels in the livers of treated animals. The same things were observed in the kidneys and spleen. The catalase activity was also significantly increased in tissues, compared to negative control.

These findings suggest that PoSP does not cause DNA damage and can prevent genotoxicity, probably through its antioxidant activities.