Monday June 16, 2014 (foodconsumer.org) -- Taking spirulina platensis as a dietary supplement may help prevent pancreatic cancer, one of the most lethal malignancies in humans, according to a study recently published in Annals of Hepatology.

The current study shows that S. platensis and S. platensis-derived tetrapyrroles (phycocyanobilin (PCB) and chlorophyllin) decreased proliferation of in vitro pancreatic cancer cells and growth of pancreatic cancer in xenotransplanted nude mice.

Spirulina at 0.16 grams per liter, PCB at 60 μM, and chlorophyllin at 125 μM significantly decreased proliferation of human pancreatic cancer cells in vitro in a dose-dependent manner.

Spirulina platensis was found to inhibit pancreatic cancer growth after three days of treatment.

All tested compounds and spirulina reduced mitochondrial ROS and glutathione redox status

The study concluded "S. platensis and its tetrapyrrolic components substantially decreased the proliferation of experimental pancreatic cancer." 

Spirulina is used in some regions as a food and it is very safe to use.  This blue-green algae has a full spectrum of nutrients including minerals, vitamins, active phytochemicals and it's protein content is higher than beef.

Spirulina platensis, a blue-green alga, has been known for its cholesterol lowering activity.  This natural food may also normalize blood pressure and boost immunity against infections like HIV and AIDS.  Tetrapyrrolic compounds in Spirulina platensis are similar to bilirubin which as a potent antioxidant and anti-proliferative agent, at high levels are known to be inversely associated with reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.  (David Liu, PHD)

Koní?ková R, Va?ková K, Vaníková J, Vá?ová K, Muchová L, Subhanová I, Zadinová M, Zelenka J, Dvo?ák A, Kolá? M, Strnad H, Rimpelová S, Ruml T, J Wong R, Vítek L.  Anti-cancer effects of blue-green alga Spirulina platensis, a natural source of bilirubin-like tetrapyrrolic compounds.  Ann Hepatol. 2014 Mar-Apr;13(2):273-83.