Study of Phycocyanin to Protect the Liver and Support Recovery After Partial Liver Removal Surgery in Adults with Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying whether phycocyanin, a natural protein from spirulina, can protect the liver and support recovery in adults undergoing partial liver removal due to intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. The study aims to find out if phycocyanin reduces liver injury after surgery, helps the liver regrow, and to assess its safety compared to a placebo. About 30 participants will take part in this randomized trial where neither the participants nor researchers will know who receives phycocyanin or placebo. Participants will take 1.5 grams of phycocyanin or a maltodextrin placebo orally once daily for 3 weeks before surgery and continue for 3 weeks after surgery. All participants will receive the standard medical care for partial hepatectomy. Researchers will collect blood and stool samples before and after treatment, study a small piece of liver tissue removed during surgery, and monitor recovery. During the study, participants will be followed up for up to 90 days after surgery. Researchers will measure changes in blood markers of liver function and inflammation, and assess liver cell growth using specific proteins. Safety will also be monitored for possible side effects. The study provides a thorough evaluation of liver healing and recovery after surgery with or without phycocyanin.

Protective Mechanisms of Phycocyanin in Partial Hepatectomy-Associated Liver Injury