Microalgae Spirulina Platensis Research Articles

Comprehensive Review of the Latest Investigations of the Health-Enhancing Effects of Selected Properties of Arthrospira and Spirulina Microalgae on Skin.

Arthospira platensis and Spirulina platensis microalgae are a rich source of pro-health metabolites (% d.m.): proteins (50.0-71.3/46.0-63.0), carbohydrates (16.0-20.0/12.0-17.0), fats (0.9-14.2/6.4-14.3), polyphenolic compounds and phenols (7.3-33.2/7.8-44.5 and 4.2/0.3 mg GAE/g), and flavonoids (1.9/0.2 QUE/g) used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations. This review summarises the research on the chemical profile, therapeutic effects in dermatological problems, application of Arthrospira and Spirulina microalgae, and contraindications to their use. The pro-health properties of these microalgae were analysed based on the relevant literature from 2019 to 2024. The antiviral mechanism of microalgal activity involves the inhibition of viral replication and enhancement of immunity. The anti-acne activity is attributed to alkaloids, alkanes, phenols, alkenes, phycocyanins, phthalates, tannins, carboxylic and phthalic acids, saponins, and steroids. The antibacterial activity generally depends on the components and structure of the bacterial cell wall. Their healing effect results from the inhibition of inflammatory and apoptotic processes, reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, stimulation of angiogenesis, and proliferation of fibroblasts and keratinocytes. The photoprotective action is regulated by amino acids, phlorotannins, carotenoids, mycosporins, and polyphenols inhibiting the production of tyrosinase, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and free oxygen radicals in fibroblasts and the stimulation of collagen production. Microalgae are promising molecular ingredients in innovative formulations of parapharmaceuticals and cosmetics used in the prophylaxis and therapy of dermatological problems. This review shows the application of spirulina-based commercial skin-care products as well as the safety and contraindications of spirulina use. Furthermore, the main directions for future studies of the pro-health suitability of microalgae exerting multidirectional effects on human skin are presented.

Orally Deliverable Microalgal-Based Carrier with Selenium Nanozymes for Alleviation of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a hallmark of both the onset and progression of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), where a continuous cycle of ROS and inflammation drives the progression of diseases. The design of oral antioxidant nanoenzymes for scavenging ROS has emerged as a promising strategy to intervene in IBD. However, the practical application of these nanoenzymes is limited due to their single catalytical property and significantly impacted by substantial leakage in the upper gastrointestinal tract. This study introduces a novel oral delivery system, SP@CS-SeNPs, combining natural microalgae Spirulina platensis (SP), which possesses superoxide dismutase (SOD)-like activity, with chitosan-functionalized selenium nanoparticles (CS-SeNPs) that exhibit catalase-like activity. The SP@CS-SeNPs system leverages the dual catalytic capabilities of these components to initiate a cascade reaction that first converts superoxide anion radicals (O2•-) into hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and then catalyzes the decomposition of H2O2 into water and oxygen. This system not only utilizes the resistance of the microalgae carrier to gastric acid and its efficient capture by intestinal villi, thereby enhancing intestinal distribution and retention but also demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory effects and effective repair of the damaged intestinal barrier in a colitis mice model. These results demonstrate that this oral delivery system successfully combines the features of microalgae and nanozymes, exhibits excellent biocompatibility, and offers a novel approach for antioxidant nanozyme intervention in IBD.

PREPARATION AND STANDARDIZATION OF EXPERIMENTAL BATCHES OF "PHOTORAN E6, LYOPHILIZATE FOR THE PREPARATION OF SOLUTION FOR INFUSIONS", A DRUG FOR PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY USING HOGWEED LEAVES AS RAW MATERIALS

Introduction. In recent years, there has been a sharp increase in the number of oncological diseases associated with more frequent detection of malignant neoplasms, including in the early stages. Photosensitizers are widely used for the diagnosis and treatment of oncological diseases. Already at the beginning of the twentieth century, it was discovered that a cancer cell is able to accumulate and retain colored substances [1]. In Russia, the photosensitizer "Photoran E6, lyophilizate for the preparation of an infusion solution" is widely used for the diagnosis of malignant tumors. The sub-stance for its production is sodium chloride E6, obtained by chemical synthesis from methylpheophorbide A. which, according to the patent, is extract-ed from the biomass of the green microalgae Spirulina Platensis, native to Japan and California. In this regard, there is an urgent question of replacing imported intermediates with more affordable ones. For this purpose, Sosnowski's hogweed (Heraculum sosnowskyi) was chosen. In connection with the above, the aim of this study was to obtain and standardize in terms of quality the finished drug for photodynamic therapy "Pho-toran E6, lyophilizate for the preparation of an infusion solution" produced from sodium chloride E6, synthesized using a new type of raw material (leaves of borscht Sosnowski). Material and methods. The object of the study was three series of the finished medicine product (hereinafter referred to as GLS) "Photoran, lyophi-lizate for the preparation of an infusion solution", produced from an active pharmaceutical substance synthesized from methylpheophorbide a, ob-tained, in turn, from the leaves of borscht Sosnovsky as an alternative source of vegetable raw materials [2]. The quality indicators of the finished me-dicinal product were determined according to the methods described in the regulatory documentation in accordance with the Regulatory Documentation of the XIV and XV editions. Results. For the research, the aseptic production of three series of GLS was carried out from the previously produced active pharmaceutical sub-stance Sodium Chloride E6. AFS was synthesized from an intermediate obtained from the leaves of borscht Sosnowski. The standardization of the ob-tained series of the drug has been carried out. The possibility of using Sosnowski's hogweed as a plant raw material for the production of photosensi-tizers based on chlorophyll derivatives has been evaluated. Conclusion. In the course of the study, the technology of aseptic production of GLS "Photoran, lyophilizate for the preparation of solution for infusions" was implemented. The quality indicators of the three produced batches of the finished drug have been determined.

Photocapacitance discharge of LEDs applied in remote sensing detectors

Abstract This paper describes the application of light emitting diodes (LEDs) as light detectors for remote sensing systems, used for the measurement of normalized differential vegetation index, one of the most common parameters monitored by these systems. The light intensity measurement was carried out through correlation of discharge time of photocapacitance of LEDs, and the performance of this configuration was compared with the same LEDs used as detectors in photovoltaic mode. One measurement system was implemented for each configuration of LEDs, using the STM32F401CBU6 microcontroller. The normalized differential vegetation index was measured in samples of liquid suspensions of microalgae Spirulina platensis with different biomass concentrations. The measurements were taken at an outdoor location and under sunlight illumination. The results obtained with measurement of normalized differential vegetation index through photocapacitance discharge effect demonstrated that this is an effective technique with an improved repeatability in measurement, in comparison with photovoltaic mode of LEDs used as detectors.

Application of Portable Near-Infrared Instrument for Analysis of Spirulina platensis Aqueous Extracts

Spirulina platensis microalga has become recognized as a promising source of highly nutritious food components to feed the growing global population. Because of its high protein content, abundance of essential amino acids, and excellent digestion, it is employed in human nutrition and there is growing interest in analyzing bioactive compound present in Spirulina platensis microalga. In this work, a portable near-infrared (NIR) spectrometer was used for the monitoring of physicochemical properties (extraction yield (EY), total polyphenols concentration (TPC), total proteins concentration (TP), antioxidant activity measured by (i) the DPPH method (DPPH) and (ii) FRAP method (FRAP)) of Spirulina platensis aqueous extracts. The ultrasound-assisted aqueous extraction (ultrasonic bath with an ultrasound frequency of 35 kHz) of bioactive molecules from Spirulina platensis was performed throughout 30 independent experiments. NIR spectra were recorded in the wavelength range of 900–1700 nm. Raw NIR spectra were subjected to the physicochemical properties applying Principal Component Analysis (PCA), partial least square (PLS), and artificial neural network (ANN) modeling. Results show that ANN models developed for the prediction of TPC and DPPH can be utilized for extraction process control (RER > 10), while the other three models can be employed for screening (RER > 4). Generally, the obtained results indicate significant potential for using portable NIR spectroscopy for the analysis of Spirulina platensis aqueous extracts.

Preparation of biogenic silver chloride nanoparticles from microalgae Spirulina Platensis extract: anticancer properties in MDA-MB231 breast cancer cells.

Breast carcinoma is the second leading cause of cancer related-deaths among women. Given its high incidence and mortality rates, searching for innovative treatments represents a formidable challenge within the medical and pharmaceutical industries. This study delves into the preparation, characterization, and anticancer properties of silver chloride nanoparticles (AgCLNPs) as a novel therapeutic approach for breast cancer cells, employing a biological synthesis method. This investigation, utilized spirulina platensis extract to synthesize silver chloride nanoparticles (AgCLNPs-SP). The formation, size, and structure of the nanoparticles were characterized by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), X-ray crystallography (XRD), and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. Additionally, the apoptotic and anticancer properties of AgCLNPs-SP were thoroughly examined. The results, revealed AgCLNPs-SP to exhibit a spherical, morphology with a size range of 40-70nm, primarily silver and chlorine. The dose-dependent response of AgCLNP-SP against MDA-MB231 cells was ascertained using the MTT Assay, with an IC50 value of 34µg/mL. Furthermore, the Annexin V-FITC/ PI apoptosis assay demonstrated a significant proportion of early apoptosis (43.67%) in MDA-MB231 cells. This apoptosis process was substantiated by up-regulation in mRNA expression levels of P53, CAD, and Bax genes, alongside a down-regulation of the of bcl2 gene expression. Additionally, an augmented production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), cell cycle analysis, Hoechst staining assay, and evaluated levels of Caspase - 3, -8 and - 9 were observed in AgCLNPs-SP-treated MDA_MB231 cancer cells. In conclusion, the results suggest that AgCLNPs-SP may be a promising agent for treating breast cancer.

Effects of Infrared and Microwave Radiation on the Bioactive Compounds of Microalga Spirulina platensis after Continuous and Intermittent Drying.

Pharmaceutical, nutritional and food industries have recently become interested in the potential of Spirulina platensis, a kind of cyanobacterium with high levels of proteins, vitamins and bioactive compounds. Because of its high moisture, this microalga needs to be submitted to a preservation technique such as drying to be properly used. The aim of this work is to investigate the use of infrared and microwave radiation in the Spirulina platensis drying process. The experiments were performed in continuous and intermittent modes, evaluating different operating conditions for infrared and microwave drying, as well as their effects on the quality of the final product, expressed by the content of bioactive compounds (i.e., total phenolic, total flavonoid, citric acid and phycocyanin contents). The results proved that the use of electromagnetic radiation in the drying of spirulina is an interesting alternative for processing this material if performed under adequate operating conditions. The experiments carried out continuously at lower temperatures and powers and the combination between different temperatures and powers in the intermittent mode resulted in a final product with satisfactory levels of bioactive compounds and low operation times in comparison with conventional methodologies.

New methods to increase microalgae biomass in anaerobic cattle wastewater and the effects on lipids production

In the present study, the microalgae Spirulina platensis DRH 20 was cultivated in 4 photobioreactors with lighting intensity of 330 (±13.2) μmol m−2 s−1, 24 h d−1. No additives were added in PBR 1, while CO2 and phosphoric acid (pH control) were added in PBR 2, phosphoric acid was added in PBR 3, and CO2 was added in PBR 4. Dry biomass reached a maximum of 20.7 g L−1 and productivity reached a maximum of 4.3 g L−1 day−1 in PBR 2. The highest value of CO2 biofixation rate was also found in PBR 2, with 7.758 mg L−1 d−1. The highest μmax and the shortest doubling time were found in PBR 4. Regarding bioremediation, percentages between 76.9% and 79% of COD, 90.9 and 99.3% of NH4+, 85% and 92%. NO3−, were removed. The highest lipid production was recorded in PBR 4 (0.581 g L−1 d−1), which could generate 52.800 gallons of crude oil per year for each hectare cultivated and a biodiesel production yield of 121.7 g kg−1. From the analyses of fatty acids, it was possible to observe that producing biodiesel with the biomass generated in PBR 4 can promote better yields in lipid production and better quality.

Open-Label Observational Study of a Topical Formulation of Calcium Spirulan Contained in a Defined Extract of the Microalga Spirulina platensis in the Treatment of Children with Molluscum Contagiosum.

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a common viral skin infection primarily affecting children which is difficult to treat using available therapeutic approaches. The sulfated polysaccharide named calcium spirulan (Ca-SP) has demonstrated antiviral effects against herpes simplex virus in keratinocytes in vitro, and a cream containing 1.5% Ca-SP and 1% of a defined microalgae extract (Spiralin®) effectively prevented herpes labialis in a trial with susceptible individuals. This observational study aimed to show antiviral effects of a similar formulation (Spirularin® VS) against MC in children. Children with active MC lesions were treated with Spirularin® VS cream twice daily on affected skin over several months and asked to return for follow-up visits after 1 to 3 months. Clinical status of MC infection was documented at baseline and follow-up visits. Of the 31 children enrolled in the study, 26 completed treatment and returned for control visits. Spirularin® VS cream was applied twice daily over a period of 1 to 9 months (mean treatment duration 3.9 months). 19/26 (73.1%) children achieved complete clearance of MC lesions with no clinical evidence of bacterial skin infection during treatment. No irritative skin reactions or unpleasant symptoms were observed or reported. This open-label observational study suggests that a cream formulation containing 1.5% Ca-SP and 1% Spiralin® may be an effective and safe treatment option for children with active MC lesions. The high rate of complete clearance of MC lesions and lack of adverse reactions warrant further investigation in larger, controlled trials.

Functionalization of Ricotta cheese with powder of spirulina platensis: physicochemical, sensory, and microbiological properties

ABSTRACT The microalga Spirulina platensis is recognized for its high nutritional value, particularly in terms of protein and bioactive compounds, and can be used to produce functional foods. The aim of this study was to develop a novel functional Ricotta cheese fortified with different amounts of spirulina powder (SRC) (0.25 , 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0) g/100 g cheese and to evaluate the effects on the cheese’s physicochemical, sensorial, and microbiological properties over a 21- day storage period at 5°C. Spirulina platensis had 70.4, 5.02, 6.77, 5.43, and 12.06 g/100 g (as drymatter) for protein, lipids, ash, fiber, and carbohydrate, respectively. It also had a high concentration of bioactive compounds, including 240.50 mg (as Gallic acid equivalents/100 g) of phenolic compounds and 30.79 mg/100 g of β-carotene. Ricotta cheese fortified with spirulina powder had a significant increase in protein, fat, ash, fibers, carbohydrates, and mineral contents. The total phenols, β-carotene, and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging capacity of SRC also increased when compared with control. The textural properties of SRC cheese were improved, and it exhibited a more attractive color and desirable microstructure. The number of aerobic bacteria increased in SRC cheese, while no yeasts or mold were detected in all fresh cheese samples, but they appeared on the 14th day for the control sample and on the 21st day for the Ricotta cheese fortified with spirulina powder sample. Coliform bacterial cells were not observed in all fresh cheese or during storage. The addition of 0.75 g/100 g dry-solids SPP is found to be optimum in terms of color and other sensorial properties.

Upstream bioprocessing of Spirulina platensis microalgae using rainwater and recycle medium from post-cultivation for C-phycocyanin production

BackgroundThe cultivation of microalgae represents a water-intensive process, prompting the need to reduce its water footprint and explore alternative water sources. Therefore, this research work aims to investigate the growth of Spirulina by recycling the culture medium obtained from the post-cultivation process and substituting rainwater resources for the preparation of the culture medium. MethodsThe effect of pre-treatment methods, specifically microfiltration and UV-light was investigated. These methods were applied to treat the recycled medium and rainwater resources used for Spirulina cultivation. Biomass concentration, biomass productivity and phycocyanin accumulation of Spirulina were examined to assess the Spirulina growth under different pre-treatment conditions. Significant FindingsAfter three cultivation cycles in the recycled medium, biomass productivity decreased from 0.2246 to 0.0802 g/L/d which might be due to high salinity and biological pollutants that inhibit Spirulina growth. However, different pre-treatment methods using microfiltration and UV-light on the recycling medium were found to be effective in increasing biomass productivity from 0.1395 to 0.1861 g/L/d. Additionally, the use of rainwater for Spirulina cultivation was explored. Applying pre-treatment methods to the rainwater, biomass productivity was further improved from 0.3211 to 0.3837 g/L/d. These findings suggest that the use of pre-treatment methods and alternative rainwater resources can improve the biomass productivity of Spirulina and potentially reduce the environmental impact throughout the microalgae cultivation process.

Endometriyal Hücrelerde Spirulina platensis Ekstresinin Kimyasal Bileşiminin Seçici Sitotoksisitesi: İn Vitro ve İn Siliko Yaklaşım

Microalgae are considered as an ample source of bioactive compounds. These wide variety of chemicals possess promising potential to translate into drug candidates. Hence, the aim of this study is to determine potential anti-cancer effects of Spirulina platensis microalgae extract against endometrial cancer cells. The selective cytotoxic effect and cytotoxicity index of S. platensis microalgae extract on the Ishikawa endometrial cancer cell line, the determination of DNA fragmentation and the change in gene expression levels of apoptosis-related Bad, Poly-ADP Ribose Polymerase-1 (PARP1), p53, Akt1 and caspase-3 signaling proteins were determined. ECV304 human umbilical vein endothelial cell line was used for a control cell line. Cytotoxic effects of 500 μg mL-1 of S. platensis microalgae extract on Ishikawa and ECV304 cells were determined as 43±4.87 % and 22±1.87 % respectively. In order to delineate specific compounds in the extract, GC-MS analysis was further conducted and seven major compounds revealed to be abundantly present. Since DNA fragmentation induced by S. platensis extract might be related interaction of GC-MS identified compounds with PARP1, an in silico analysis was further implemented. Results indicated the presence of a possible PARP1 inhibitory mechanism contributing to the apoptotic response. In conclusion, a possible link between a specific compound found in S. platensis microalgae extract and the cytotoxicity in endometrial cells was formed through combining in vitro and in silico approaches. The result of these approaches has contributed to the identification of potential anti-cancer compound candidates found in S. platensis microalgae extract.

Oral Microalgae-Nano Integrated System against Radiation-Induced Injury.

The increasing applications of ionizing radiation in society raise the risk of radiation-induced intestinal and whole-body injury. Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant to reduce the reactive oxygen generated from radiation and the subsequent damage. However, the oral administration of astaxanthin remains challenging owing to its low solubility and poor bioavailability. Herein, we facilely construct an orally used microalgae-nano integrated system (SP@ASXnano) against radiation-induced intestinal and whole-body injury, combining natural microalgae Spirulina platensis (SP) with astaxanthin nanoparticles (ASXnano). SP and ASXnano show complementation in drug delivery to improve distribution in the intestine and blood. SP displays limited gastric drug loss, prolonged intestinal retention, constant ASXnano release, and progressive degradation. ASXnano improves drug solubility, gastric stability, cell uptake, and intestinal absorption. SP and ASXnano have synergy in many aspects such as anti-inflammation, microbiota protection, and fecal short-chain fatty acid up-regulation. In addition, the system is ensured with biosafety for long-term administration. The system organically combines the properties of microalgae and nanoparticles, which was expected to expand the medical application of SP as a versatile drug delivery platform.

Effects of dietary supplementation of probiotic and Spirulina platensis microalgae powder on growth performance immune response, carcass characteristics, gastrointestinal microflora and meat quality in broilers chick.

With the potential development of human pathogenic bacteria resistant to antibiotics, the use of antibiotics as growth promoter in poultry production was banned in different countries, and it has forced the poultry industry to consider 'Biologically safer' alternatives to antibiotics, among which the probiotics and microalgae can be mentioned. Present study aimed to compare Spirulina platensis microalgae in combination with a native probiotic as an alternative to antibiotics. 336 male broiler chicks were allotted into 7 treatments and 4 repetitions in a completely randomised design to evaluate chick's performance and immune response to different treatment based on indexes as feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, humoral immunity, carcass characteristics, thigh and breast pH, intestinal morphology and microbial population. European production efficiency coefficient was also reported. No significant difference was appeared in the pH of thigh and breast meat (p > 0.05). Supplementation of diets with SP0.3 revealed better villi height, villi length to crypt depth ratio and villi surface. With significant difference (p < 0.05), the highest and lowest colonies of Lactobacillus and E. coli were recorded for PR0.5 SP0.3 treatments. Supplementation of broilers diets either with probiotic prepared from the microorganism isolated of native birds (1g/kg) or S. platensis (0.2g/kg) alone and their combination (0.3g/kg of S. platensis in combination with 0.5g/kg of native probiotic) are promising and can be a good alternative to antibiotics, lead to progress of broiler's performance.

Evaluation of effective environmental parameters on lipid, protein and beta-carotene production in Spirulina platensis microalga

Microalgae are able to produce various products, including biofuel, proteins, and beta-carotene. Hence, the determination of optimal conditions for the production of these compounds is of utmost importance. This study aims to evaluate the impact of environmental parameters on the production of lipid, protein, and beta-carotene in Spirulina platensis microalgae. The studied parameters included salinity levels of 1, 2, and 3 M, pH values above and below seven, nitrate concentrations of 0.25 and 0.5 g L−1, light intensities of 2500 and 5000 lux, and temperatures of 25 and 30 °C. The results suggest that the highest protein level is synthesized at 2 M salinity, acidity above seven, 0.25 g L−1 nitrate concentration, 5000 lux of light intensity, and 30 °C temperature. However, the optimal conditions for lipid accumulation are found as the salinity of 2 M, pH greater than 7, nitrate concentration of 0.25 g L−1, the light intensity of 5000 lux, and temperature of 30 °C. The optimal beta-carotene production occurs at 3 M salinity, pH ≥ 7, nitrate concentration of 0.5 g L−1, the light intensity of 5000 lux, and temperature of 30 °C. A better understanding of the optimal conditions can ensure the maximum production of bioproducts, including biofuel, protein, and beta-carotene in Spirulina platensis microalga, at minimum costs.

Oxygen and nitrogen-doped carbon particles derived from pyrolysis of Chlorella vulgaris and Spirulina platensis microalgae as an efficient electrode material for supercapacitor application

This study consists of the thermal activation of Chlorella vulgaris and Spirulina platensis microalgae with a potassium hydroxide (KOH) chemical agent in a carbon dioxide (CO2) atmosphere and the formation of nitrogen and oxygen-doped material from the hydrothermal interaction of the obtained activated carbons with nitric acid. The obtained nitrogen and oxygen-doped activated carbons were used in the production of electrochemical super capacitors. The morphological properties of the obtained pores were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Electrochemical properties were evaluated according to the cyclic voltammetry (CV) method in sulphuric acid (H2SO4), potassium chloride (KCl), and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) electrolytes with a scanning rate in the range of 2.5–50 mVs−1. Nitrogen and oxygen doped electrode electrochemical capacitor based on Spirulina platensis microalgae showed the highest specific capacitance of 99.53 Fg−1 at a scanning rate of 2.5 mV s−1 in 1 M H2SO4 electrolyte. In contrast, the supercapacitor based on an activated carbon electrode from Chlorella vulgaris microalgae showed the highest specific capacitance of 156.04 Fg−1 at a scan rate of 2.5 mV s−1 in 1 M KCl electrolyte.

Development and Characterization of Cultured Buttermilk Fortified with Spirulina plantensis and Its Physico-Chemical and Functional Characteristics

In recent years, there has been an unprecedented increase in the demand for fermented dairy products due to medical recommendations and lifestyle preferences. Cultured buttermilk, as an ancient fermented dairy beverage, is an appropriate product choice in this context. This study presents a novel cultured buttermilk formulated by fortification with high protein microalgae Spirulina platensis, thus making it valuable and attractive because of its antioxidant properties. The fermentation process, nutraceutical properties, and sensory characteristics of developed cultured buttermilk with various concentrations of Spirulina (0.25, 0.5, and 1%) were compared with the control sample (0% Spirulina buttermilk). Different concentrations of Spirulina in buttermilk result in a significant increase in chlorophyll and carotenoid content, boosting its antioxidant properties. The study also evaluated the prebiotic properties of Spirulina, thus, demonstrating its ability to promote a healthy digestive system. It was found that the addition of 0.25% Spirulina was able to ferment the product more quickly and retained the sensory acceptability of the finished product. The protein content, free radical scavenging activity, chlorophyll, carotenoid, and total phenolic content of 0.25% Spirulina-fortified buttermilk was 1.83%, 48.19%, 30.9 mg/g, 8.24 mg/g, and 4.21 mg/g GAE, respectively. Based on the results obtained, it was concluded that cultured buttermilk with a high nutritional value and functional health benefits can be developed by fortification with 0.25% Spirulina as a natural ingredient.

Carbon dioxide capture from combustion gases in residential building by microalgae cultivation

Introduction: Global warming and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from various emission sectors are not hidden from anyone. The aim of this study was to determine Carbon dioxide (CO2)capture from combustion gases of methane for cultivation of microalgae spirulina platensis.&#x0D; Materials and methods: Microalgae culture medium was added in two photobioreactor. Air and combustion gas was injected into control and test reactors respectively. Artificial light with 10 Klux intensity was used and operated in continuous and intermittent (14 h ON and 8 h OFF) modes. Inlet concentration of carbon dioxide in to the test photobiorector was set in the range of 2000 to 6000 ppm and was measured in the inlet and outlet of photo-bioreactor by ND-IR CO2 analyzer.&#x0D; Results: In the control photo-bioreactor, the average removal of CO2 from the air was 42%. In the test reactor with an inlet CO2 concentration of 4100 ppm, the average removal of CO2 from the combustion gas was 23%. After 9 days of cultivation, the amount of carbon dioxide stabilized by microalgae was 0.528 and 1.14 g/L (dry weight) in the control and experimental photo- bioreactors respectively. The CO2 bio-fixation rate was in the range of 2.2% and 4.0% at different runs. After 9.0 days of cultivation concentration of microalgae was 0.25 and 1.0 g/L in the control and test reactors respectively. Algae productivity with intermittent light was 35% less than continuous light exposure.&#x0D; Conclusion: It is possible to use CO2 capture from combustion gases of commercial heater for cultivation of microalgae spirulina.

Technological Evaluation of Algae-Based Fillers for Polymer 3D Printing

One approach to reducing the environmental footprint of conventional polymers is to compound them with bio-based fillers. Plant-based materials have already been successfully used as polymer fillers. In this context, algae-based fillers received minor attention. Due to their unique growth efficiency and ability to capture large amounts of CO2, the use of algae-based fillers could have economic and ecologic advantages. In this work, a possible use of algae as a sustainable filler for filament materials was technologically evaluated. In practical investigations, conventional polyethylene-terephthalate-glycol (PETG) was mixed with the microalgae spirulina platensis and chlorella vulgaris and extruded to 3D printing filaments. Based on printed test specimens and material samples, the printability, mechanical, and thermal properties of the composite were determined. Filaments with a homogeneous distribution of algae particles and stable diameters up to a filler content of 30 wt.% could be produced. All filaments had good printability and adequate moisture sensitivity for higher algae contents. For 30 wt.% the tensile strength of the produced filaments decreases from 54 MPa to 24 MPa, the flexural strength decreases from 87 MPa to 69 MPa, and the material operating temperature decreases slightly from 70 °C to 66 °C. The addition of smaller amounts of algae results in minor changes regarding the overall performance. The properties of the material were comparable to those of other natural fillers such as wood, bamboo or cork. The main objective of adding bio-based materials to polymeric matrices can be achieved. Our results suggest that algae-based filaments can be produced as a more sustainable and low-cost material.

The role of Spirulina platensis on the proliferation of rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells.

Spirulina platensis micro-algae have some effects on cellular procedures. The proliferative potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) will be decreased after repetitive passage. The stromal cells were isolated, and then proven by differentiating to adipogenesis and osteoblastic lineage. The cell markers such as CD90 and CD105 were detected by flowcytometry. MSCs were treated with extract of S. platensis in logarithmic concentrations. MTT and ATP assays were done to determine cell proliferation capacity. The antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of the extract were evaluated. The results obtained from differentiation confirm cells' potential for osteoblastic and adipoblastic differentiation. Detection of CD90 and CD105 markers over 70% proved that the majority of cells are MSCs. Statistical analyzes revealed a significant increase in MSCs proliferation in the concentration of 0.9 μl/ml S. platensis. DPPH assay demonstrated that the extract could scavenge free radicals up to 57%. Additionally, the extract showed the inhibition zone up to 11 mm against a different strain of bacteria by agar well diffusion assay. Secreting nutritional elements, S. platensis extract can be used as an antioxidant, antimicrobial, and growth agent for enhancing the proliferation of MSCs. Furthermore, the optimum concentration for cell treatment with S. platensis's extract was investigated.