Research · Animal study
C-phycocyanin: a potent peroxyl radical scavenger in vivo and in vitro
Bhat & Madyastha · 2001 · Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications
Key finding
Phycocyanin administered to rats significantly reduced acetaminophen-induced liver oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity. The protective effect was proportional to the dose of phycocyanin. Phycocyanin was found to be a particularly potent scavenger of peroxyl radicals compared to standard antioxidants.
Why this matters for consumers
The peroxyl radical scavenging is relevant to exercise-induced oxidative stress and everyday cellular aging. This study mechanistically explains the liver-protective and anti-fatigue effects observed in human studies — PC appears to neutralise the reactive oxygen species generated by heavy exercise and metabolic stress.
Study limitations
Animal study; rat model of drug-induced liver injury; needs human translation.
Related studies
Ergogenic and antioxidant effects of spirulina supplementation
Kalafati et al. · 2010
C-phycocyanin: a biliprotein with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects
Romay et al. · 2003
Spirulina supplementation improves lipid profile and oxidative stress in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Ismail et al. · 2015
Enhancement of immunity by dietary spirulina
Qureshi et al. · 1996
New research, when it matters
Curated science, recipes, and brand intel — once a week, no spam, unsubscribe in one click.