Spirulina's secret protein may shield the liver during surgery

NCT ID NCT07760038

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, School of Medicine Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 12, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests whether phycocyanin, a natural protein from spirulina, can reduce liver injury and support recovery in adults having part of their liver removed due to intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. About 30 participants will take either phycocyanin or a placebo daily for three weeks before and after surgery. Researchers will compare liver function, inflammation, and liver cell growth between the two groups to see if the supplement offers any protective benefit.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: phycocyanin, a natural protein from spirulina, taken as a dietary supplement
What this could lead to: If effective, phycocyanin could become a simple, natural supplement to protect the liver and speed recovery in people undergoing partial liver removal.
What could go wrong: This is a small early-stage trial, so results may not apply broadly. Possible side effects include allergic reactions or stomach discomfort, and the supplement may not outperform placebo.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cholangiocarcinoma Cirrhosis, Familial, with Pulmonary Hypertension intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

INTRAHEPATIC CHOLANGIOCARCINOMA (ICC) LIVER INJURY

Contacts and locations

Locations

The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University
RECRUITING

Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China

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