Mutagenicity and Antimutagenicity of Polysaccharide and Phycocyaninextracts of Arthrospira platensis (IFRPD 1182) and Arthrospira maxima (IFRPD 1183)

Abstract

Arthrospira spp. are a filamentous blue-green algae that contain a high protein content (60%) and an impressive list of vitamins, amino acids and minerals. Arthrospira spp. are also a great source of polysaccharide and phycocyanin pigments that maintain body balance and boost the human immune system. The mutagenicity and antimutagenicity of these algae and their natural products are promising as the starting point for the discovery of novel, potentially bioactive compounds. Consequently, the aim of the study was to investigate the mutagenicity of water and 80% methanol extracted from Arthrospira platensis (IFRPD 1182) and Arthrospira maxima (IFRPD 1183) as well as the antimutagenic properties of the polysaccharide and phycocyanin obtained from both types of algae against four standard indirect mutagens (Trp-P-1, Trp-P-2, MeIQx and PhIP). The results revealed that the water extracts and 80% methanol extracts from both algae had no mutagenic effects on Salmonella Typhimurium strains TA98 and TA100 at all concentrations tested (300, 600, 1,200 and 2,500 μg/plate). This indicated that the extracts were safe and had no effects on the genetic material in cells. The phycocyanin extracted from both Arthrospira spp. was more effective in inhibition of mutagen than the polysaccharide extract from both algal types by 64–69%. Furthermore, the phycocyanin extracted from Arthrospira demonstrated protection against mutagenicity induced by toxic substances in grilled and smoked food products.