Statistical Optimization of Spirulina Maxima Loaded Microspheres and Assessment of Antioxidant, Antidiabetic Potential in Glycemic Abnormalities Induced Wistar Rats by Excessive Fructose Administration

The present study focused on formulating simple and efficient system for delivery of Spirulina Maxima via microspheres and to assess their antioxidant and antidiabetic potential on Wistar rats. The microspheres of Spirulina Maxima were prepared by solvent evaporation, and hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), methanol and Tween-80 were as components of the system. Diabetes was induced in animals by administering 10% fructose solution for 13 weeks. The microspheres were evaluated in the aspects of particle size, surface morphology, % entrapment efficiency etc. Wistar rats were used to test oral glucose tolerance, effect of Spirulina extract on insulin, antidiabetic activity, toxicity of Spirulina, serum cholesterol, blood glucose level etc. Statistical evaluation was done using Box-Behnken design, in which % encapsulation efficiency was the dependent variable, and extract HPMC, methanol and Tween-80 were the independent variables. The experiment results revealed that the selected animals were sensitive towards glucose and hence diabetes was successfully induced using 10% fructose solution. Animals showing blood glucose level more than 250 mg/dl were selected for study and grouped into 4. After completion and in between of treatment, animals were monitored for body weight, insulin level, serum cholesterol, and blood glucose level. The results reveal that no change in body weight was observed when treated with microsphere of S. Maxima. The serum cholesterol levels were found normal for microsphere treated group. The prepared formulation was found to be as significant (P < 0.001) as standard drug in lowering/maintaining serum insulin levels. Monitored using Glucometer, the blood glucose level showed that algal extract successfully maintained the glucose level to normal compared with other groups. Toxicity study was done to decide optimum dose of S. Maxima, which highlighted the non-toxic nature of blue green algae (BGA) even at high doses and long period of time. Thus, it is safe for consumption. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using nitric oxide radical scavenging method, which showed that S. Maxima possessed antioxidant activity which increased with increasing time.