Ethanolic Extract Of Propolis Research Articles

Cytotoxic and Radiosensitizing Effects of European and African Propolis in 3D Lung Carcinoma Cell Cultures.

Natural compounds such as propolis have gained wide popularity in the last decades. While its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties are well known, the anticancer properties of propolis are just beginning to be appreciated. Herein, we comparatively investigate the cytotoxic and radiosensitizing potential of four different ethanolic propolis extracts originating from three different countries (Germany, Ireland, South Africa) in human lung cancer cell models. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was applied to characterize the four different propolis extracts. Cytotoxicity and radiation survival were determined by 3D matrix-based clonogenic assays and autophagy was examined by western blotting. We found cytotoxicity in a propolis type-, time- and cell model- dependent manner. In the four ethanolic propolis extracts, Coumaric acid, Caffeic acid phenethyl ester, Pinocembrin and Chrysin presented the major compounds identified. Examining the induction of autophagy using the marker LC3B and autophagy inhibition with chloroquine suggested autophagy to be part of the survival mechanisms upon propolis treatment in a cell model-dependent manner. Combining propolis with X-ray irradiation showed the radiosensitizing potential of propolis in human lung cancer cell models, which clearly presented in a manner dependent on the incubation time of propolis and the cell model treated. Propolis treatment showed cytotoxic and radiosensitizing effects of propolis on human lung cancer cells. Since these effects differ greatly between the four propolis extracts studied and originating from different regions, further studies are urgently needed to differentiate propolis species and their anticancer properties in more detail.

Wound Healing, Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Oxidant Activities, and Chemical Composition of Korean Propolis from Different Sources

Propolis, such as is used as bio-cosmetics and in functional materials, is increasing because of its antioxidant medicinal benefits. However, its pharmacological and chemical composition is highly variable, relative to its geography and botanical origins. Comparative studies on three propolis samples collected from different regions in Korea have been essential for linking its provenance, chemical composition, and biological activity, thereby ensuring the efficient utilization of its beneficial properties. Here, we report the chemical composition and biological activities such as the antioxidant, wound healing, and anti-inflammatory effects of the ethanolic extract of Korean propolis collected from two regions. We compared the chemical constituents of three 70% ethanol-extracted (EE) samples, including the Andong, Gongju field (GF), and Gongju mountain (GM)-sourced propolis using Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The major and common components of these EE Korean propolis were flavonoids such as pinocembrin (12.0–17.7%), chrysin (5.2–6.8%), and apigenin (5.30–5.84%). The antioxidant property using a 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity assay of EEP showed substantial differences among samples with the highest from Andong. The sample 10% GM levigated in simple ointment was found to be the most active in wound healing activity based on the excision, incision, and dead space wound models. The potential of propolis for wound healing is mainly due to its evidenced properties, such as its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and angiogenesis promoter effects, which need further study. The anti-inflammatory activity and NO production inhibitory effect were highest in GM samples. However, GM and GF samples demonstrated similar inhibitory effects on the expression of inflammatory mediators such as iNOS, IL-1β, and IL-6. The presence of a higher concentration of flavonoids in Korean EE propolis might be responsible for their promising wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Adding red propolis to the diet of Lacaune lambs: Effects on animal health, ruminal environment, performance, and meat quality

This study determined the influence of red propolis ethanolic extract in lambs' diets on the ruminal environment, animal health, and growth. Two experiments were carried out to achieve these objectives. Pilot study: Twenty-four female Lacaune lambs were divided into four groups, with three replicates and two animals per replicate (pen): T0 (Control), TP1.3, TP2.7, and TP5.3, representing 0, 1.3, 2.7, and 5.3 mL of propolis extract per animal/day, respectively. The highest daily weight gain was observed in lambs that consumed 2.7 mL of propolis extract per day, and they also had the lowest feed conversion rate compared to the control. Lower total leukocyte counts were observed in lambs that consumed propolis extract compared to control due to lower granulocyte and lymphocyte counts. Ceruloplasmin and C-reactive protein levels were lower in the serum of lambs that consumed propolis compared to the control. Lambs that consumed 1.3 and 2.7 mL of propolis extract had lower TBARS levels than the control. The effect of treatment was observed for ruminal pH, which was higher in lambs that consumed propolis extract than in control. A lower concentration of short-chain fatty acids was observed in lambs that consumed propolis than the control due to lower concentrations of acetic and butyric acid. In experiment II, 36 male Lacaune lambs were selected and divided into two groups: MONENSIN (23.45 ppm of monensin per kg/dry matter (DM)) and PROPOLIS (3.8 mL of propolis per animal/day). The animals that consumed propolis extract had greater body weight, weight gain, and average daily gain. These also had a shorter time to reduce methylene blue, thus demonstrating more significant bacterial activity in the rumen. Furthermore, they had lower counts of Escherichia coli, total coliforms, and Enterobacteria. The meat's fatty acid profile in animals fed the red propolis extract showed higher concentrations of monounsaturated fatty acids. In conclusion, adding red propolis extract to the concentrate increased weight gain, average daily gain, and oxidative balance with an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect.

Propolis ameliorates renal, liver, and pancreatic lesions in Wistar rats.

This study aimed to evaluate the potential of ethanolic extract of propolis on the secondary lesions of the liver, renal, and pancreatic that were derived by primary colorectal cancer, and comparison of the ethanolic extract of propolis with the vitamin E. The groups included the control, ethanolic extract of propolis, vitamin E, dimethylhydrazine, dimethylhydrazine + ethanolic extract of propolis, and dimethylhydrazine + vitamin E. After 13 weeks of treatment, the blood and tissue samples were taken from all the rats, and alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, uric acid, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, insulin, amylase, and lipase indices along with the tissue pathological examination of the kidney, liver, and pancreas were evaluated. Ethanolic extract of propolis effectively alleviated the colorectal cancer-induced secondary lesions in the liver by significantly lowering the alanine transaminase significantly. Ethanolic extract of propolis significantly decreased uric acid in rats; and also significantly elevated the pancreatic insulin. In addition, inflammation and cell necrosis indices in all these tissues were significantly reduced when ethanolic extract of propolis was consumed compared to the dimethylhydrazine group. It seemed ethanolic extract of propolis showed high antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory potentials, and can be used practically to reduce the side lesions of colorectal cancer.

Inhibitory Effects of Aqueous Ethanol Extracts of Poplar-Type Propolis on Advanced Glycation End Products and Protein Oxidation

(1) Background: The non-enzymatic glycation of proteins is a significant contributor to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and intermediates that are responsible for diabetic complications. It is imperative to explore effective inhibitors to prevent protein glycation. (2) Methods: This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory potential of various aqueous ethanol extracts of poplar-type propolis on AGEs and oxidative modifications in bovine serum albumin (BSA)-glucose and BSA-methylglyoxal models. (3) Results: The results revealed that these propolis extracts exhibited significant effectiveness in inhibiting the formation of total AGEs, pentosidine, and Nε-carboxymethyllysine (CML). Furthermore, the investigation discovered that these propolis extracts can effectively inhibit oxidative modification, based on measuring the levels of carbonyl and thiol groups and analyzing tryptophan fluorescence quenching. Notably, 75% ethanol extracts of propolis (EEP) exhibited the highest inhibitory activity, surpassing the chemical inhibitor aminoguanidine (AG). (4) Conclusions: The remarkable anti-glycation potency of aqueous ethanol extracts of poplar-type propolis can be attributed to their elevated contents of phenolic compounds, especially abundant flavonoids, which inhibit the formation of AGEs by scavenging free radicals, decreasing the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and capturing reactive carbonyl species (RCS) in the protein glycation process. Our results indicate that poplar-type propolis may be a potential AGE inhibitor and could be used to develop functional foods and nutraceuticals to prevent diabetic complications.

Regional propolis extracts suppress Fusarium fujikuroi and boost rice seedling growth and response against Bakanae disease

Bakanae, caused by Fusarium fujikuroi, is a serious seed-borne disease affecting rice production worldwide. Herein, we investigated the potential of propolis, a natural honeybee product, collected from three geographic locations in Egypt: North (Menofia), Middle (Cairo), and South (Sohag), and extracted with four different solvents (ethanol, olive oil, hexane, and water) as a sustainable eco-friendly alternative to control the Bakanae disease in rice. In vitro experiments showed that propolis extracts exhibited antifungal activity against F. fujikuroi and significantly suppressed its mycelial growth and sporulation. The antifungal activity of propolis extracts was associated with its chemical composition which varied depending on geographical origin, and the extraction solvents. Moreover, SEM-based analysis revealed that ethanolic extract of northern propolis prominently altered the microconidia morphology of F fujikuroi, which shrunken and seemed to lose their viability. These findings were further confirmed in vivo under greenhouse conditions. Soaking F fujikuroi-inoculated rice seeds in 1000 ppm of propolis extract significantly reduced the bakanae disease incidence, and disease severity index compared to mock-treated controls. Although infection with F fujikuroi induced the accumulation of H2O2, the application of propolis extracts alleviated oxidative stress and significantly reduced the H2O2 levels within infected rice seedlings. Moreover, propolis extracts enhanced the profile of enzymatic antioxidants (guaiacol-dependent peroxidase [POX] and polyphenol oxidase [PPO]) in F. fujikuroi-infected rice seedlings. Finally, Propolis extracts-treated rice seedlings exhibited higher transcript levels of three PTI-marker genes including nonexpressor of pathogenesis-related genes 1 (OsNPR1), WRKY transcription factor 21(OsWRKY21), and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (OsPAL1), which are associated with systemic acquired resistance (SAR) and crucial for the plant's defense response against pathogens. Collectively, these findings suggest that propolis might be a promising sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to control bakanae disease and other fungal seed-borne phytopathogens due to its antifungal properties and ability to induce a complex multilayered defense system within infected plants.

Effects of propolis extract administration on immune parameters, faecal consistency scores, and growth performance of Holstein-Friesian calves.

The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of Ethanolic Extract of Propolis (EEP) administration on immune parameters, faecal consistency scores, growth performance, and feed efficiency of Holstein Friesian calves. A total of 24 calves were divided into two different groups, control (n = 12) and EEP (n = 12). Both groups consisted of 6 male and 6 female calves. The calves were fed milk amounting to 10% of their birth weight each day until they reached 60days of age. Additionally, they were given starter feed and dry hay once a day. Calves assigned to the EEP group received 4ml of EEP daily. Use of EEP increased (P < 0.05) the serum IgG and IgM levels at 2months of age compared to the control group. EEP also showed efficacy (P < 0.01) in reducing faecal consistency in calves throughout the study. The levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and NF-κB expression in calves treated with EEP were lower (P < 0.05) throughout the EEP application period. On the other hand, IGF-1 mRNA transcript levels were (P < 0.01) higher in EEP group calves than in the control group. Furthermore, EEP-fed calves consumed less dry matter for 1kg of live weight gain during the weaning-4months (P < 0.01) and birth-4months (P < 0.05) periods. These results indicate that EEP supplementation, through its immunostimulatory effects, plays a crucial role in the control of neonatal calf diarrhoea. Growth and development as well as IGF-1, which stimulates growth in almost all somatic cells, was also significantly increased by EEP supplementation. The combined effect of the rich bioactive compounds found in EEP appears to have a significant impact on health and well-being, resulting in improved early life performance in dairy calves.

Novel composite of nano zinc oxide and nano propolis as antibiotic for antibiotic-resistant bacteria: a promising approach

This study proposes an innovative approach to combat the escalating threat of antibiotic resistance in bacteria by introducing a novel ZnO-propolis nanocomposite (ZnO-P NCs). The overuse of antibiotics, particularly during events like the COVID-19 pandemic, has intensified bacterial resistance, necessitating innovative solutions. The study employs a cost-effective and controllable biosynthesis method to produce ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs), with propolis extract crucially contributing to the reduction and stabilization of Zn2+ ions. A biodegradable nano-propolis matrix is then created by incorporating ZnO-NPs, forming the ZnO-P NCs. Structural stability is confirmed through FT-IR and Zeta potential analysis, while nanoscale properties are validated via TEM, SEM, and XRD analyses. The antimicrobial efficacy of various substances, including propolis, nano propolis, ethanolic propolis extract, ZnO-NPs, and ZnO-P NCs, is assessed against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, alongside a comparison with 28 antibiotics. Among the bacteria tested, Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 ATCC15692 was more sensitive (40 mm) to the biosynthesized nanocomposite ZnO-P NCs than to ZnO-NPs (38 mm) and nanopropolis (32 mm), while Escherichia coli was resistant to nanopropolis (0 mm) than to ZnO-NPs (31 mm), and ZnO-P NCs (34 mm). The study reveals a synergy effect when combining propolis with green-synthesized ZnO-NPs in the form of ZnO-P NCs, significantly improving their efficiency against all tested bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains like E. coli. The nanocomposite outperforms other materials and antibiotics, demonstrating remarkable antibacterial effectiveness. SEM imaging confirms the disruption of bacterial cell membranes by ZnO-NPs and ZnO-P NCs. The study emphasizes the potential applications of ZnO-NPs integrated into biodegradable materials and underscores the significance of the zinc oxide-propolis nanocomposite in countering antimicrobial resistance. Overall, this research offers a comprehensive solution to combat multidrug-resistant bacteria, opening avenues for novel approaches in infection control.

Development and characterization of zein co-encapsulated wampee essential oil and propolis extract films for food preservation

This study aims to develop zein co-encapsulated Wampee [Clausena lansium (Lour.) Skeels] essential oil (WEO) and propolis ethanol extract (PEE) for incorporation into sodium alginate matrix (ZPWS). The films were evaluated for their morphological features, chemical structure, mechanical and barrier properties, as well as their resistance to high temperatures. Additionally, antibacterial effects and antioxidant activities of films were investigated. The functional properties of zein were also evaluated for its ability to effectively co-encapsulate WEO and PEE, achieving in delayed release. Overall, the ZPWS films exhibited excellent functional properties compared the original films. These enhancements included greater tensile strength, increased rigidity, heightened resistance to water, improved thermal stability, a more condensed structure, and the presence of strong antioxidant and long-lasting bacteriostatic properties. Finally, a real-time study on the edible coated films was carried out strawberries preservation. The ZPWS film demonstrated good potential for application in food preservation.

Inhibitory Effects of Propolis Flavonoids on Migration and Invasion of Laryngeal Cancer Cell and Analysis of Related Signal Pathways

Laryngeal cancer (LGC) is a malignant tumor that occurs in the larynx, and it is mainly treated through chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. Nevertheless, the five-year survival rate for patients is poor. Bee propolis contains various bioactive compounds and abundant anti-tumor active ingredients. Nevertheless, research on the use of propolis extracts for the treatment of LGC is relatively limited. This research aimed to demonstrate the inhibitory effects of ethanol extracts of propolis on migration (Mig) and invasion (Inv ) of LGC cells, as well as the related signaling pathways. The effects of graded ethanol extraction of propolis on the proliferation (Pro), Inv, Mig, apoptosis (Apo), and related signaling pathways of Hep-2 cells were analyzed. Propolis was extracted using ethanol (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) for the graded extraction of crude propolis. The flavonoid content and yield of the extracts were determined. The effects of various concentrations of propolis flavonoids on the clearance of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals, O2- radicals, and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS) radicals were evaluated, as well as their effects on the Pro inhibition of normal human pancreatic ductal epithelial (hTERT-HPNE) cells. Hep-2 cells of LGC were cultured using media containing 0, 25, 50, and 100 μmol/L propolis flavonoids. The cell Pro activity, Inv, Mig, Apo, and expression of PI3K/Akt pathway-related proteins were evaluated using CCK-8 assay, Transwell chamber assay, acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) double staining method, and Western blotting, respectively. It was revealed that extraction with 50% ethanol solution yielded a higher content and yield of flavonoids, which were 51.20% and 7.42%, respectively. As the concentration of propolis flavonoids increased, the clearance rates of DPPH, O2-, and ABTS radicals, as well as the inhibition of hTERT-HPNE Pro, gradually increased. The maximum clearance rates were 84.1%, 26.6%, and 92.3%, respectively, while the maximum cell Pro inhibition rate was only 8.6%. Relative to the 0 μmol/L propolis flavonoid treatment group, the Hep-2 cells treated with 25, 50, and 100 μmol/L propolis flavonoids exhibited decreased cell Pro activity, reduced number of invasive and migratory cells, increased Apo rate, decreased PI3K and p-Akt proteins, and demonstrated a concentration-dependent effect (P &lt; 0.05). In summary, the extraction with 50% ethanol solution resulted in a higher yield of flavonoids. Propolis flavonoids demonstrated marked antioxidant activity and did not cause damage to normal hTERT-HPNE cells. They exhibited inhibitory effects on the Pro, Inv, and Mig of Hep-2 cells in LGC, and promoted cell Apo. These effects may be associated with PI3K/Akt signaling inhibition.

Ethanol Extract of Propolis Attenuates Liver Lipid Metabolism Disorder in High-Fat Diet-Fed SAMP8 Mice.

The prevalence of high-fat diet (HFD) consumption is increasing among middle-aged and older adults, which accelerates the aging process of this population and is more likely to induce lipid metabolism disorders. But the alleviation of ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) on lipid metabolism disorders during aging remains unclear. This study assesseed the impact of EEP intervention (200 mgkg-1bw) on aging and lipid metabolism disorders in HFD-fed senescence accelerate mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) mice. Findings indicate that EEP ameliorates hair luster degradation and weight gain, reduces systemic inflammation and metabolism levels, enhances hepatic antioxidant enzyme activities, and improves the hepatic expression of senescence-associated secretory phenotype and aging-related genes in HFD-fed SAMP8 mice. Histological staining demonstrates that EEP improves hepatic lipid deposition and inflammatory cell infiltration. Transcriptomic and lipidomic analysis reveal that EEP promotes fatty acid β-oxidation by activating PPAR pathway, resulting in reduced hepatic lipid deposition, and attenuates bile acid (BA) accumulation by improving BA metabolism, which were ensured through qPCR validation of key genes and immunoblot validation of key proteins. CONCLUSIONS: EEP can regulate lipid metabolic dysregulation during aging accompanied by an HFD, potentially delaying the onset and progression of age-related diseases. This provides new approach for supporting healthy aging.

The Comparative Study of the Antioxidant and Antibacterial Effects of Propolis Extracts in Veterinary Medicine.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the biggest threats to human and animal health. Efforts to combat AMR include the introduction of antimicrobial drugs as alternative treatment options. To contribute to an effective plan for the treatment of infectious diseases caused by bacteria, the development of new antimicrobial agents is increasingly being explored. Propolis has garnered significant attention from both scientists and industry due to its extensive spectrum of biological activity. The growing interest in polyphenols of natural origin and their plant sources further encourages the investigation of their chemical composition and biological effects. Propolis serves as a rich source of phenolic compounds. Baltic region propolis, classified as poplar-type propolis, was selected for this study, and extracts were prepared using raw propolis materials from various Baltic countries. The production of liquid extracts utilized a combination of 70 percent ethanol, a mixture of water and poloxamer P407, and DES (deep eutectic solvent). The research aims to produce liquid propolis extracts using different solvents and to assess their chemical composition, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity against different veterinary pathogens. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), revealing antioxidant activity in all extracts, with results correlating with the total phenolic compound content. It was found that p-coumaric acid predominated in the studied propolis extracts (in ethanol extracts 1155.90-1506.65 mg/g, in DES extracts 321.13-954.76 mg/g, and in polymeric extracts 5.34-30.80 mg/g), with smaller amounts of ferulic acid and vanillin detected. Clinical and reference bacterial strains were collected from the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, the Academy of Veterinary Medicine, and the Institute of Microbiology and Virology. To effectively treat bacterial infections, the antimicrobial activity of propolis extracts was tested against six pathogenic bacterial species and one pathogenic fungus (S. aureus, S. agalactiae, B. cereus, E. faecalis, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans). Antimicrobial activity studies demonstrated that DES propolis extracts exhibited stronger antimicrobial activity compared to ethanolic propolis extracts. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of DES propolis extracts against the tested strains ranged between 50 and 1000 μg/mL. Considering the study results, it can be concluded that propolis from the Baltic region is abundant in phenolic compounds exhibiting antioxidant and antibacterial activities.

Development of a chitosan/propolis-based polymeric system: Characterization, biocompatibility, and modulation of transcription factor expression

Chitosan (CHT) and propolis (P) are natural materials with antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and mucoadhesive properties with many applications in orthopaedia dentistry. The objective of this study was to develop a low molecular weight (LMW) and medium molecular weight (MMW) chitosan polymeric system with propolis at different concentrations (0.31%, 0.62%, 1.25%, 2.5%, and 5%) and to evaluate the effect in terms of their cell interaction with dental pulp fibroblasts. FTIR spectra of both molecular weights CHT’s films with propolis show increased transmittance bands at 1730–1720 cm−1 and 1460 cm−1, indicating the presence of propolis ethanolic extract in the organic matrix. Contact angles test to determine hydrophobicity CHT films functionalized with propolis exhibit a more hydrophobic surface as propolis concentration increases. Cytotoxicity showed synergy between chitosan and propolis; the highest proliferation was observed in LMW CHT with 0.31% of propolis. Membranes made with CHT of both molecular weights plus propolis in an inflammatory stage (cells previously treated with LPS) can inhibit the expression of NF-k-B, MAPK, and VEGF. A polymeric system based on chitosan/ethanolic extract propolis could be a future alternative treatment for oral ulcers.

Rapid Analysis of Colonic Metabolomics in High-Fat Diet Mice by Extraction Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (EESI-MS).

Propolis exhibits significant anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antiobesity properties in both mouse models and clinical applications. However, the underlying metabolic mechanisms remain poorly understood. Traditional metabolomic methods that rely on chromatographic separation require complex preprocessing steps and extended detection periods. In this study, we employed extraction electrospray ionization mass spectrometry combined with multivariate analysis to directly profile metabolites in the colon tissue of mice. Our findings demonstrate the efficacy of ethanol extract of propolis (EEP) in mitigating weight gain, reducing inflammatory cytokines, and improving insulin resistance induced by a high-fat diet. Additionally, EEP enhanced glucose tolerance. Through collision-induced dissociation experiments, we identified 26 metabolites, with 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, protocatechuic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, hippuric acid, histidine, and tryptophan emerging as potential biomarkers. Notably, tryptophan exhibited the highest content at 8.25 mg/g. Our research facilitates rapid profiling of colon metabolites, underscoring its significant potential for broader applications in animal metabolomic studies.

The Effects of Various Ethanolic Extracts on Some Microbiological Properties of Chicken Sausages

In this study, the antimicrobial effects of different levels (0%, 5%, 10%) of ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP), sage (EES), lavender (EEL), yarrow (EEY), and yellow cantaron (EEC) on total psychrotroph aerobic bacteria (TPAB), total coliform and fecal coliform, yeast-mold in chicken sausage were investigated. The sausages were divided into 7 groups. The first and second groups were the control samples. The surface of second control group of chicken sausage was sprayed with only ethyl alcohol (70%). The third, fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh groups were sprayed with EEP, EES, EEC, EEY and EEL at two levels respectively: 5%, 10%. Prior to each treatment, sausages were left to be stored at +4ºC for 10 days. All extracts significantly (P

Evaluation of physical properties of glass ionomer cement modified by ethanolic extract of propolis

Evaluation of physical properties of glass ionomer cement modified by ethanolic extract of propolis

Unlocking the potential of propolis: Concentration-dependent effects on Ossimi Ram (Ovis aries) semen quality

Reproductive biotechnology requires successful and efficient cryopreservation of semen since it is a crucial technique for artificial insemination, which preserves and multiplies the superior genetic origins of animals. Propolis, a natural antioxidant produced by honeybees, was examined in this study. Tris-citric-glucose-soybean lecithin extender supplemented with propolis ethanolic extract (P, μg/mL) at 0 (Control), 25 (T1), 50 (T2), 100 (T3), and 200 (T4) was used. The extended semen, prepared in a 1:20 ratio (semen: extender) at 37 °C, was equilibrated for 2 hours at 5 °C and packaged in straws (0.25 ml) before storage in liquid nitrogen at -196 °C. Visual characteristics (e.g., motility, livability, abnormality), DNA integrity, lipid peroxidation, and total antioxidant capacity of semen after thawing with P extract were thoroughly investigated. The results revealed that the low concentration (T1, 25 and T2, 50 µg/ml P) decreased lipid peroxidation, apoptotic sperm, improved sperm characteristics, and maintained the highest sperm cell viability. This resulted in improved reproductive performance and DNA integrity during cryopreservation of Ossimi ram semen. However, the high concentration (T3, 100 and T4, 200 µg/ml P) had the opposite effect and showed a low impact on maintaining cryopreserved Ossimi ram semen. In conclusion, Propolis shows potential for enhancing cryopreservation efficiency, but an optimal dosage is crucial to avoid adverse effects.

Antimicrobial and Wound Healing Performance of Polycaprolactone Electrospun-Based Nanofibers Incorporating Propolis and Quercus Infectoria Gall Extracts

Background: A highly effective antibacterial wound dressing was developed in this investigation by developing a novel bioactive functional nanostructure. Methods: Ethanolic extracts of propolis (EEP) and Q.infectoria galls (QIG) were processed to obtain their respective extracts. The antibacterial properties of the individual EEP and QIG extracts and their combined effects were investigated. Based on the antibacterial test results, solutions containing polycaprolactone (PCL), PCL/EEP, PCL/QIG and PCL/EEP/QIG were prepared. These solutions were then used to fabricate nanobased mats through electrospinning. The resulting nanofibers were examined in terms of their physical, chemical and biological traits. In order to assess the wound healing capabilities, in vivo experiments were conducted, wherein the efficacy of the scaffolds in combating Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections on wounds was evaluated. Results: The nanoscale structure of the electrospun nanofibers was confirmed through FESEM analysis, while the successful integration of EEP and QIG in the PCL-based electrospun nanofiber was validated using FTIR. By including both EEP and QIG bioactive extracts in the nanofiber, improved antibacterial and antioxidant activities were achieved without compromising the viability of human fibroblast cells. The use of PCL/EEP/QIG dressings led to wound closure rates of 85% and 100% on the 5th and 15th day of treatment, respectively, demonstrating the effectiveness of the combination of EEP and QIG extracts. Conclusions: The remarkable outcomes have presented encouraging prospects for using PCL/EEP/QIG as a highly effective wound dressing with antibacterial properties in clinical trials.

Comparing Antimicrobial Effects of Heterotrigona itama Propolis from Two Regions of Malaysia Against Enterococcus faecalis

Objective: This present study aimed to determine and compare the antimicrobial properties of Malaysian propolis (MP) produced by Heterotrigona Itama from different regions of Malaysia, against E. faecalis. Methods: The propolis were obtained in Lenggong MLP (North Peninsula Malaysia) and Raub MRP - (Central Peninsula Malaysia). The antibacterial activities of the ethanolic extracts of propolis were conducted using antimicrobial susceptibility test (AST), minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). The effect of these extracts on the cell morphology were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Calcium hydroxide and 5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) were used as controls. Results: Statistical analysis was done using unpaired t-test to differentiate the difference of the two averages. The ethanol extracts of MLP showed higher activity compared to MRP at 50mg/ml on E. faecalis with zone of inhibition of 14.33mm and 10.00mm respectively. MIC test for MRP and MLP was 0.78125mg/ml and 3.125mg/ml respectively. Whereas the MBC value for both MRP and MLP was 12.50mg/ml and 50.00mg/ml respectively. SEM analysis showed that MP disrupted the size, cell morphology and the structure of the bacteria cell wall. Conclusion: Our study showed MRP outperformed MLP against E. faecalis via MIC, MBC and SEM. Dissimilarities of surrounding trees in Raub and Lenggong may provide the variable chemical source contributing to this contrast. Thus, these stingless bees have a very special relationship with plant resins, relying on them for the very survival of their nests.

Anti-Biofilm Perspectives of Propolis against Staphylococcus epidermidis Infections.

Staphylococcus epidermis has emerged as the main causative agent of medical device-related infections. Their major pathogenicity factor lies in its ability to adhere to surfaces and proliferate into biofilms, which increase their resistance to antibiotics. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the use and the mechanism of action of an ethanolic extract of Spanish propolis (EESP) as a potential alternative for preventing biofilm-related infections caused by S. epidermidis. The chemical composition of propolis is reported and its antibacterial activity against several strains of S. epidermidis with different biofilm-forming capacities evaluated. The influence of sub-inhibitory concentrations (sub-MICs) of EESP on their growth, physicochemical surface properties, adherence, and biofilm formation were studied. EESP interferes with planktonic cells, homogenizing their physicochemical surface properties and introducing a significant delay in their growth. The adherence and biofilms at the EESP concentrations investigated were decreased up to 90.5% among the strains. Microscopic analysis indicated that the planktonic cells that survived the treatment were the ones that adhere and proliferate on the surfaces. The results obtained suggest that the EESP has a high potential to be used as an inhibitor of both the adhesion and biofilm formation of S. epidermidis.