Abstract
The effects of Nannochloropsis were studied on rats consuming hypercholesterolemic diets. The whole biomass and the hexane/ethanol extract increased the plasma and hepatic eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids levels, and reduced the cholesterol levels. We also observed a higher level of propionate, and a lower ratio between acetate and propionate. These data suggest the efficacy of Nannochloropsis in reducing cholesterol levels.