Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of crude Spirulina extract and C-phycocyanin (C-PC) isolated from crude Spirulina extract on cultured human keratinocyte, using in vitro and in vivo models of wound healing. Spirulina has been used as a nutraceutical and source of potential pharmaceuticals, however it is not known which component of the cyanobacteria is effective for wound healing. In in vitro model, cultured human keratinocyte were used to investigate the effects of crude Spirulina extract (PSE) and C-phycocyanin (C-PC) extracts on processes involved in keratinocyte proliferation, regeneration and migration. Keratinocyte proliferation and regeneration were monitored by the colorimetric (MTT) assay and migration was monitored in relation to the closure of a denuded area scratched in a confluent monolayer. On the other hand, in in vivo model using Sprague-Dawley male rats, effects of PSE and C-PC on tissue regeneration were investigated. Results of in vivo wound healing study were monitored by means of histological examinations. PSE extract showed the best growth stimulation at 33.5 µg/mL dose of treatment, which revealed a cell viability ranging from 100 to 270% after 72 h. Cell viability was also good for C-PC and was measured as high as 213%. Cell viability and proliferation difference between PSE and C-PC were observed not to be significant (p > 0.05) at the range of doses (33.5 to 0.0335 µg/mL) studied. In in vivo efficiency of the PSE and C–PC, it was observed that 1.25% C-PC has a better effect on the 7th day compared to other preparations.

Key words: Spirulina extract, c-phycocyanin, in vitro, in vivo, Sprague-Dawley rats, 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), tissue regeneration.