C-phycocyanin acts as a positive immunomodulator in different primary and secondary organs of mice.

OBJECTIVE

C-Phycocyanin (C-PC) is a photosynthetic pigment with interesting therapeutic properties. However, its effectiveness in modulating the immune system cell populations has not been elucidated. We analyzed the action of C-PC on the modulation of mice immune system.

METHODS

The animals were treated subcutaneously with C-PC for 3 consecutive days. On the fourth day, the animals were euthanized and cells from different organs were analyzed by flow cytometry. Cytotoxicity was analyzed using biochemical parameters.

RESULTS

The results showed that C-PC increased the total cellularity in percentage and absolute number in the inguinal lymph node as well as the absolute number of B cells, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and myeloid cells. The percentage of B cells was also increased in the lymph node. In the bone marrow, there was a reduction in immature and mature B cells. In contrast, C-PC increased the percentage and absolute number of myeloid cells in the bone marrow. C-PC administration also promoted an increase of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the thymus, and a reduction in these populations in the spleen.

CONCLUSION

The data show for the first time the positive immunomodulatory role of C-PC by recruiting distinct populations of immune system cells to the treatment-draining lymphoid organ.