Spirulina platensis and alpha lipoic acid are protective against the deleteriousEffects of aspartame on the liver and kidneys of rabbits

Abstract

Spirulina platensis and alpha lipoic acid are the most important antioxidants. The purpose of this study was to explore the adverse effect of artificial sweetener (Aspartame) and the protective role of alpha lipoic acid and spirulina in alleviating the deleterious effects of aspartame on the liver and rabbit kidneys.Forty two Rabbits were classified into seven equal groups.Group I: (Control group) received no drugs. Group II: rabbits administered with alpha-lipoic acid (100mg/kg b.wt/day). Group III: rabbits received spirulina platensis (1500 mg/kg b. wt/day). Group IV: rabbits received aspartame (250 mg/kg. b.wt/day). Group V:rabbits received aspartame (250 mg mg/kg b. wt) and treated with alpha- lipoic acid (100 mg/kg b. wt). Group VI: rabbits received aspartame (250 mg mg/kg b.wt) and treated with spirulina. Group VII: rabbits received aspartame and treated daily with alpha- lipoic acid and spirulina for 8 weeks.Blood samples for serum separation were collected once from all animal groups aftereight weeks ofexperiment. The results revealed a significant increase in serum liver marker enzymes (ALT), (AST), (ALP)},kidny function tests (urea, creatinine, uric acid) and lipid profile (total cholesterol and triacylglycerols) and total protein concentration with a significant reduction in serum albumin in aspartame- administrated group.Coadministration of spirulina and alpha lipoic acid with aspartame treated rabbits ameliorate aspartame dangerous effects as revealed by a significant enhancement in all previous biochemical parameters to its normal ranges.