# Toxicological assessment of Chlorella vulgaris and its potential preventive effect in a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) mouse model

## TL;DR

This study shows that Chlorella vulgaris, a type of green microalgae, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in mice and may help prevent chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

## Contribution

The study introduces Chlorella vulgaris as a potential functional food with detoxifying and anti-inflammatory benefits in a COPD mouse model.

## Key findings

- Chlorella vulgaris supplementation enhanced antioxidant defenses without liver or kidney toxicity.
- It reduced inflammation and improved oxidative stress in a COPD mouse model.
- The supplement partially restored normal lung structure and positively affected gut microbiota.

## Abstract

Green microalgae, particularly Chlorella vulgaris, are a rich source of bioactive and nutritional compounds, making them promising candidates for nutraceutical applications. This study evaluated the antioxidant capacity, phenolic composition, and potential health effects of Chlorella vulgaris supplementation (1% and 8%) in male BALB/c mice over 4 weeks, as well as its preventive role in a murine model of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The extract showed a high antioxidant potential, supported by its phenolic and carotenoid profile. Supplementation, especially at 8%, enhanced antioxidant defences without signs of liver or kidney toxicity. In the COPD model, C. vulgaris reduced inflammation, improved oxidative stress balance, and partially restored normal lung structure. Additionally, changes in caecal metabolites suggested a positive impact on gut microbiota and metabolic homeostasis. Overall, C. vulgaris supplementation demonstrated detoxifying, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits, supporting its potential use as a functional food, particularly under stress-related conditions such as COPD.

Flowchart summarizing an experimental study design. Top: Bioactive compounds and phenolic profiles from plant materials are determined by UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS analysis, followed by in vitro antioxidant activity assays. Left: In vivo toxicological study on 30 mice over four weeks, with control (CTR), and two test groups (CV 1% and CV 8%). Blood parameters, cytochrome P450 activity, and gene expression are analyzed. Right: In vivo protective assessment in a COPD mouse model with 40 mice, including groups with COPD and varying CV percentages. Tests involve BALF cytological analysis, oxidative stress biomarkers, and cecal content metabolite evaluation by HPLC-UV/Vis.