<i>Spirulina Platensis</i> Microalgae as High Protein-Based Products for Diabetes Treatment
Mustofa Ahda, Suhendra Suhendra, Adi Permadi
Abstract
Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) is a protein-rich source because it contains approximately 60% protein. Therefore, it has positive impacts on human health, including anti-diabetes. The potential of Spirulina platensis as an anti-diabetic agent has been investigated in-vitro and in-vivo. Its extract is capable of inhibiting amylase, α-glucosidase, and DPP IV enzymes in a range of medium activities. Furthermore, spirulina at 250 mg/Kg body weight (BW) in mice can reduce blood glucose levels with similar outcomes to the positive controls (pioglitazone and glibenclamide). Protein groups (Phycocyanin), isolated peptides, and flavonoid groups such as Pinocembrin, Acacetin, and others have been predicted to be responsible for lowering glucose levels. In the market, several commercial products have been sold. Many commercial products have been sold in the market. However, these products are food supplements because a clinical study has not yet been undertaken to confirm their potency and safety. According to this analysis, there is a significant chance to produce anti-diabetic medications from spirulina sources in the future.