Effects of Spirulina on the Number of Ovary Mast Cells in Lead-Induced Toxicity in Rats

Abstract

The present study investigated the protective effect of Spirulina against the lead-induced increase in mast cells in the ovary during the oestrous cycle of rats. In the ovary cortex and medulla of lead-exposed animals, there was a significant increase in the number of mast cells; however, when also treated with Spirulina, a decrease was observed. The number of mast cells when Spirulina (300 mg/kg) was used alone was not significantly different from that of the control group. These results indicate that Spirulina decreases the number of mast cells induced by lead in the cortex and medulla of rat ovary. Copyright (c) 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.