Evaluation of the Role of Chlorella vulgaris as a Natural Environmental Resource in Improving Metabolic Disorders in Hyperlipidemic Rats.

Abstract

Background:  Hyperlipidemia, characterized by elevated blood lipid levels, is a major risk factor for metabolic disorders, and natural resources such as Chlorella vulgaris have shown potential in modulating lipid metabolism and improving overall metabolic health.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of Chlorella vulgaris as a natural environmental resource in mitigating metabolic disturbances associated with hyperlipidemia in rats.

Material and Methods: Twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: negative control, positive control (high-fat diet; HFD), and two HFD groups supplemented with Chlorella vulgari (4.5% and 8.5%) for 28 days. Phytochemical screening, growth performance, lipid profiles, glycemic status, liver/renal functions, and immunoglobulins (IgA/IgE) were assessed, alongside myocardial histopathology.

Results: Chlorella vulgari exhibited high bioactive content, with total phenolics and flavonoids at 21.8 and 38.1 mg/100g, respectively. Chlorella vulgari supplementation, particularly at 8.5%, significantly reduced body weight gain and reversed dyslipidemia by lowering total cholesterol, LDL-C, VLDL-C, and triglycerides, while elevating HDL-C (p < 0.05). Additionally, Chlorella vulgari significantly decreased serum glucose, uric acid, and liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP), indicating potent hepatoprotective and metabolic regulatory effects. A notable immunomodulatory response was observed through the reduction of elevated IgA and IgE. Histopathologically, Chlorella vulgari especially the 8.5% dose restored myocardial architecture, neutralizing inflammatory infiltration and myofibrillar degeneration induced by hyperlipidemic stress.

Conclusion: Chlorella vulgaris acts as a multi-targeted nutraceutical, reversing metabolic disturbances and protecting cardiac tissues through its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phytochemical profile. These findings support its application as a functional food strategy for managing cardiovascular and metabolic syndromes.