Propolis Samples Research Articles

Stability of Propolis Phenolics during Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Procedures.

Propolis has gained popularity in recent years as a potential preventive and therapeutic agent due to its numerous health benefits, which include immune system boosting, blood pressure lowering, allergy treatment, and skin disease treatment. The pharmacological activity of propolis is primarily attributed to phenolics and their interactions with other compounds. Given that phenols account for most of propolis's biological activity, various extraction methods are being developed. The resin-wax composition of the propolis matrix necessitates the development of an extraction procedure capable of breaking matrix-phenol bonds while maintaining phenol stability. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the stability of two major groups of phenolic compounds, flavonoids and phenolic acids, in propolis methanol/water 50/50 (v/v) extracts obtained after ultrasound-assisted extraction (USE) under different extraction parameters (extraction time and pH) and heat reflux extraction (HRE). The methodology involved varying the USE parameters, including extraction time (5, 10, and 15 min) and pH (2 and 7), followed by analysis using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to quantify phenolic recoveries. Results revealed that benzoic acid and chlorogenic acid derivatives demonstrated excellent stability across all ultrasound extraction procedures. The recoveries of flavonoids were highly diverse, with luteolin, quercitrin, and hesperetin being the most stable. Overall, neutral pH improved flavonoid recovery, whereas phenolic acids remained more stable at pH = 2. The most important optimization parameter was USE time, and it was discovered that 15 min of ultrasound resulted in the best recoveries for most of the phenols tested, implying that phenols bind strongly to the propolis matrix and require ultrasound to break the bond. However, the high variability in phenol extraction and recovery after spiking the propolis sample shows that no single extraction method can produce the highest yield of all phenols tested. As a result, when working with a complex matrix like propolis, the extraction techniques and procedures for each phenol need to be optimized.

Antibacterial activity of three ethanolic extracts of propolis from the municipalities of Sevilla, Cartago, and Armenia, Colombia, against MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus)

Introduction: Staphylococcus aureus is a pathogen commonly associated with hospital and community-acquired infections, particularly methicillin-resistant strains that impose limi- tations on treatment options. The resistance of these strains to beta-lactam antibiotics has spurred the search for new antimicrobial sources, and natural products such as propolis extracts have demonstrated efficacy against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The an- timicrobial activity of propolis depends to the flora used by the bees to make the propolis. Aim: This study aims to determine the antibacterial activity of three ethanolic extracts of propolis from the municipalities of Sevilla, Cartago, and Armenia, Colombia, against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Methodology: The methodology involved obtaining ethanolic extracts of propolis collected from different regions of Colombia, followed by fractionation and identification of the propolis with the highest bactericidal activity. Subsequently, an analysis using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectro- metry (GC-MS) was identified the predominant compound in the selected fractions. Re- sults: All three propolis samples evaluated in this study demonstrated bactericidal activity at concentration of 10 mg/mL, with the Cartago propolis showing concentrations below 5 mg/mL. Chromatographic analysis identified 3-Hexadecyloxycarbonyl-5-(2-hydroxye- thyl) as the predominant compound. Conclusion: In conclusion, the need for additional research to understand the pharmacological potential of Colombian propolis, specifically the bactericidal activity of Cartago propolis against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Analysis and evaluation of quality parameters of commercial propolis products using a new high Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method and Comparison of antimicrobial properties

Propolis, which has an important place in functional foods, is a natural bee product with high biological active value and is consumed in different formulations and packages worldwide. Thanks to the active compounds it contains, propolis shows biological properties such as antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiprotozoal, antitumoral, antiulcer and anti-inflammatory. However, it is seen that propolis supplements are prepared unconsciously in the market.Such commercial products need to be standardized. Within the scope of this study, characteristic compounds of Turkish propolis were initially determined with support from the literature. Subsequently, bioactive components of 23 commercial propolis products were analyzed using the new HPLC method. Then, the flavonoid content and antimicrobial activity of the samples were determined.According to the results of these analyses, the amounts of Caffeic Acid (2,16–1620,57 ppm, Quercetin (0,19–203,99 ppm), Apigenin (0,30–319,08 ppm), Kaempferol (0,56–251,15 ppm), Chrysin (3,97–2830,93 ppm), and Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (13,08–9666,48 ppm) were found to be quite different. The highest flavonoid content was measured as P2: 20847,43 mg/L and the lowest was 00003,10 mg/L in sample P13. Samples prepared for children were found to be highly diluted in terms of content. Again, it was determined that the samples with high preservation of active ingredients were products with production certificates based on laboratory analyzes. The samples were generally found to have inhibition activity against Gram (+) bacteria. Propolis samples P6 and P22 showed high activity against Gram (+) and Gram (−) bacteria and even fungi. When we evaluated some products that are insufficient in terms of content and antimicrobial activity, it was observed that antimicrobial activity increased depending on the other auxiliary chemicals used in the products. In this context, propolis products, which are very valuable in terms of health, may lose their real activity due to uncontrolled production and will gradually be devalued in the market. It is important that this valuable product should be produced and offered to the market with the necessary analysis methods without losing its effectiveness.

The Influence of Geographical Origin on Poplar Propolis Composition and the Impact of Human Microbiota.

Ethanol extracts obtained from 13 poplar propolis samples originating from various European countries by traditional maceration were tested for total polyphenols, flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity. Moreover, the content of 18 polyphenolic compounds (from the group of phenolic acids and flavonoids) was determined using the HPLC method. The inhibitory effect of six selected extracts with the highest activity was assessed by well-diffusion method against five strains (Bifidobacterium spp., L. rhamnosus, L. acidophilus, E. coli, and Bacteroides spp.) of intestinal bacteria self-isolated from the faeces of obese probands with the use of selective media. It was found that the antioxidant activity of propolis varied depending on geographical origin and even among samples from the same region, which indicates that some other factors also influence propolis quality. The samples of different geographical origin varied mainly in the share of individual phenolic compounds, and it was not possible to find a characteristic marker of origin, excluding the galangin present in the Polish samples only. Assessing the inhibitory activity of propolis (in the range of 70 mg to 10 µg per mL) indicated that the concentration of 100 µg/mL was found as being safe for tested fecal bacteria (Bifidobacterium spp., L. rhamnosus, L. acidophilus, E. coli, and Bacteroides spp.). As no negative effect of low doses of propolis on the intestinal microflora was found, it can be suggested that its use in recommended doses brings only beneficial effects to the body.

Quality of Propolis Commercially Available on Podkarpacki Beekeeping Market

Abstract Eight samples of propolis commercially available on south-eastern Poland’s beekeeping market were compared in terms of quality, chemical composition and biological activity, including antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The organoleptic characteristics and physicochemical requirements indicated that only 50% of tested propolis samples was classified to class II regarding obligatory limits, while the others were out-class. A big variation in mineral composition was determined by the ICP-OES method but all samples were free of heavy metals (Pb, Cd and Ni). Although mesophilic bacteria, yeasts and moulds occurred in tested propolis (in general lower than 102 CFU/g), E. coli and spore-forming sulphite-reducing bacteria as well as Salmonella and Shigella bacteria were not detected. High antioxidant activity and total phenolic content for all samples was confirmed, which was correlated with antibacterial activity tested against E. coli ATCC 11775 strain. Additionally, the propolis sample with the strongest antibacterial activity (MIC 0.33 mg/mL) inhibited biofilm formation of S. aureus and S. epidermidis ATCC 35984 (MBIC 0.66 and 5.25 mg/mL, respectively). However, great variation in terms of antioxidant activity and HPLC polyphenolic profile were observed, and sakuranetin and pinobanksin were identified as the most effective antioxidant components. Moreover, the usefulness of ATR-FTIR spectra analysis was confirmed as a quick method for initial testing of propolis quality.

GC-MS analysis of ethanolic extract of propolis from Jhajjar district in Haryana, India

Aim: To analyse the chemical composition of ethanolic extract of propolis, a glue like resinous natural material collected by worker honey bees from Jhajjar district of Haryana. Methodology: Chemical composition analysis of the ethanolic extract of propolis sample collected from Jhajjar district of Haryana, India was determined by Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Propolis sample was crushed to powdered form and extracted using 70% ethanol and kept for around 20 days. The supernatant was then filtered and thereafter, the filtered extract was dried and collected in a clean vial. Results: GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of hydrocarbons, sugars, fatty acids, carboxylic acid, alcohols, ethers, carbamate ester and other organic compounds. Interpretation: The results revealed the presence of diverse biochemical constituents which can be utilized in therapeutics of several ailments to enhance the quality of life by improving human health. Key words: Chemical profile, Fatty acids, Organic compounds, Propolis

Romanian Bee Product Analysis: Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial Activity, and Molecular Docking Insights.

Bee products are considered true wonders of nature, used since ancient times, and studied even today for their various biological activities. In this study, we hypothesise that Romanian bee products from different origins (micro apiary products, lyophilised forms, commercial) exhibit distinct chemical compositions, influencing their biological activities. An LC-MS analysis revealed varied polyphenolic content patterns, with cumaric acid, ferulic acid, rosmarinic acid, and quercitine identified in significant amounts across all samples. Primary anti-inflammatory evaluation phases, including the inhibition of haemolysis values and protein denaturation, unveiled a range of protective effects on red blood cells (RBC) and blood proteins, contingent upon the sample concentration. Antimicrobial activity assessments against 12 ATCC strains and 6 pathogenic isolates demonstrated varying efficacy, with propolis samples showing low efficacy, royal jelly forms displaying moderate effectiveness, and apilarnin forms exhibiting good inhibitory activity, mostly against Gram-positive bacteria. Notably, the lyophilised form emerged as the most promising sample, yielding the best results across the biological activities assessed. Furthermore, molecular docking was employed to elucidate the inhibitory potential of compounds identified from these bee products by targeting putative bacterial and fungal proteins. Results from the docking analysis showed rosmarinic and rutin exhibited strong binding energies and interactions with the putative antimicrobial proteins of bacteria (-9.7 kcal/mol to -7.6 kcal/mol) and fungi (-9.5 kcal/mol to -8.1 kcal/mol). The findings in this study support the use of bee products for antimicrobial purposes in a biologically active and eco-friendly proportion while providing valuable insights into their mechanism of action.

Chemical Composition of Volatile and Extractive Components of Canary (Tenerife) Propolis.

The vegetation of the Canary Islands is characterized by a large number of endemic species confined to different altitudinal levels. It can be assumed that these circumstances determine the characteristic features of the chemical composition of local beekeeping products, including propolis. We report, for the first time, the chemical composition of propolis from Tenerife (Canary Islands). The volatile emissions of three propolis samples collected from different apiaries are represented by 162 C1-C20 compounds, of which 144 were identified using the HS-SPME/GC-MS technique. The main group of volatiles, consisting of 72 compounds, is formed by terpenoids, which account for 42-68% of the total ion current (TIC) of the chromatograms. The next most numerous groups are formed by C6-C17 alkanes and alkenes (6-32% TIC) and aliphatic C3-C11 carbonyl compounds (7-20% TIC). The volatile emissions also contain C1-C6 aliphatic acids and C2-C8 alcohols, as well as their esters. Peaks of 138 organic C3-C34 compounds were recorded in the chromatograms of the ether extracts of the studied propolis. Terpene compounds form the most numerous group, but their number and content in different samples is within very wide limits (9-63% TIC), which is probably due to the origin of the samples from apiaries located at different altitudes. A peculiarity of the chemical composition of the extractive substances is the almost complete absence of phenylcarboxylic acids and flavonoids, characteristic of Apis mellifera propolis from different regions of Eurasia and North America. Aromatic compounds of propolis from Tenerife are represented by a group of nine isomeric furofuranoid lignans, as well as alkyl- and alkenyl-substituted derivatives of salicylic acid and resorcinol.

Further Insights on Honey and Propolis from Gerês (Portugal) and Their Bioactivities: Unraveling the Impact of Beehive Relocation.

Propolis, a bee product, is known for its variability of chemical and bioactive profiles. However, Portuguese propolis from Gerês, normally obtained by mixing propolis from three places-Bugalho, Felgueiras and Toutelo-has shown similar chemical and biological profiles over the years. Recently, a new propolis place-Roca-was added to the apiary to replace Bugalho, lost to the 2017 wildfires, hence questioning the previously claimed constancy of Gerês propolis. To unravel to what extent the beehive relocation affected this constancy, we studied different Gerês propolis samples collected in three consecutive years (2017-2019) composed of different combinations of source places. Two honey samples, collected before (2017) and after (2018) the occurrence of the wildfire, were also investigated. Total phenolics, flavonoids and ortho-diphenols contents were determined and the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities were evaluated, using the DPPH assay and the agar dilution method, respectively. Although both antimicrobial and antioxidant activities were generally in the ranges usually obtained from Gerês propolis, some variations were detected for the samples, with different compositions when compared to previous years. This work reinforces the importance of the consistency of a combination of several factors for the protection and preservation of the flora near the hives, providing bee products with more constant chemical and biological profiles over the years.

Physicochemical Characterization, Antioxidant, and Proliferative Activity of Colombian Propolis Extracts: A Comparative Study.

Propolis extracts have been widely studied due to their popularity in traditional medicine, presenting incredible biodiversity. This study aimed to analyze propolis extracts' phytochemical, physicochemical, and biological activities from four different biogeographic zones of the Huila region (Colombia). The raw material samples were collected by the scraping method and the ethanolic extracts (EEPs) were obtained by cold maceration with ethanol (96%). The physicochemical and sensory characterization was carried out according to the protocols recommended by the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and the main components of the EEPs were identified by LC-HRMS analysis. The determination of total phenols and flavonoids was carried out using colorimetric techniques. The antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, and cell cycle regulation analyses in L929 and HGnF cells were evaluated using DPPH, Alamar Blue, and 7-amino actinomycin D (7-AAD) assays. The propolis samples presented an average yield of 33.1%, humidity between 1.6 and 2.8%, melting point between 54 and 62 °C, ashes between 1.40 and 2.19%, and waxes of 6.6-17.9%, respectively. The sensory characteristics of all samples were heterogeneous, complying with the quality specifications established by international standards. The polyphenolic and total flavonoid content was representative in the samples from Quebradon (255.9 ± 9.2 mg GAE/g, 543.1 ± 8.4 mg QE/g) and Arcadia (543.1 ± 8.4 mg GAE/g, 32.5 ± 1.18 g QE/g) (p < 0.05) that correlated with high antioxidant activity (Quebradon: 37.2 ± 1.2 µmol/g, Arcadia: 38.19 ± 0.7 µmol/g). In the chemical composition analysis, 19 compounds were characterized as phenolic acids and flavonoids, the most representative being chrysoeriol-O-methyl-ether, ellagic acid, and 3,4-O-dimethylcaffeic acid. Regarding biological activity, Quebradon and Arcadia propolis presented low toxicity with IC50 of 2.83 ± 2.3 mg/mL and 4.28 ± 1.4 mg/mL in HGnF cells, respectively, and an arrest of the cell cycle in the G2/M phase of 71.6% and 50.8% compared to the control (11.9%) (p < 0.05). In general, the results of this study contribute to the identification of valid quality criteria to evaluate Colombian propolis, contributing to its study and chemical and biological characterization as a source of raw material for industrial and pharmaceutical use. In addition, Quebradon and Arcadia propolis can be important sources of bioactive molecules for the development of new drugs.

Comparative study of different Malaysian Stingless bee propolis: Physicochemical characterization, Phytochemical contents and Antibacterial activity

Stingless bee propolis is known to contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including phenolic and flavonoids, which have been linked to its antibacterial properties. Nevertheless, the phytochemical compositions of stingless bee propolis are significantly influenced by a complex interplay of multiple factors such as geographical origin, floral source, and bee species. This study aimed to assess the physicochemical properties, phytochemical contents, and antibacterial activity of propolis from different stingless bee species found in the same environment and ecological system. The propolis samples obtained from Heterotrigona itama, Geniotrigona thoracica and Tetrigona apicalis were subjected to physicochemical analysis to determine the pH, moisture, lipid, resin, and wax contents. The total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) were measured by Folin-Ciocalteu colorimetric and aluminium chloride methods, respectively. The antibacterial activity was determined using the agar well diffusion method against four Gram-positive bacteria, including Bacillus cereus, Micrococcus luteus, Streptococcus mutans, and Staphylococcus aureus. The physicochemical analysis of the propolis samples yielded the following results: moisture (12.17-16.45%), lipid (2.95-9.48%), resin (39.00-51.00%), wax (26.50-37.00%), and pH (5.07-5.61). Results revealed that propolis produced by G. thoracica displayed significantly higher moisture (16.45±0.38%), and resin contents (51.00±1.41%), as well as significantly lower percentage of lipid (2.95±0.12%), and wax content (26.50±0.71%). Similarly, G. thoracica propolis extract exhibited significantly higher TPC (200.70±0.06mg/mL GAE) and TFC (141.60±3.63mg/mL QE) values compared to the other propolis samples. Additionally, G. thoracica propolis extract was significantly active against B. cereus and M. luteus with inhibition zones of 15.00 and 16.00, respectively, and minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) of 390.63μg/mL. A strong correlation was found between resin content, TPC and antibacterial activity of propolis. This study indicated that the presence of high resin content in propolis resulted in a high concentration of phenolic compounds, which contributed significantly to its antibacterial activities. Furthermore, the research highlighted the species-dependent effect of propolis on its physicochemical characteristics, phytochemical composition, and antibacterial properties. The observed antibacterial efficacy of G. thoracica propolis suggested that the propolis extract held promise as an alternative treatment option against bacterial infections. Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the specific phenolic compounds that could contribute to its antibacterial properties.

In Vitro Determination of Nitric Oxide Synthase Inhibition, Antioxidant Capacity and Phenolic Content of Various Natural Products (Bee and Herbal Products).

It is obvious that the oxidation process is an undeniable fact and when it comes to aging, one of the first solutions that come to mind is natural products. When it comes to natural products, both plants and bee products play an important, almost combative role against oxidation. For this purpose, natural products of both plant and animal origin were considered together in our study: Linden, green tea, aronia, wild grapes, myrtle, blueberries and basil, honey, pollen and propolis. Total phenolic content values of the extracts ranged between 49.28 and 3859.06 mg gallic acid equivalent/100 g, and propolis, green tea, chestnut flower and aronia samples were found to have the highest values. When looking at the NOS inhibition potential, it was determined that propolis, pollen and aronia samples had the highest percentage inhibition values of 98.11, 92.29, 83.44, respectively. Antioxidant activities of methanolic extracts were investigated using iron(III) reducing/antioxidant capacity (FRAP), 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity test and NOS inhibition tests. The phenolic composition of methanolic extracts was tested using the RP-HPLC-UV (high-performance liquid chromatographic method with ultraviolet) method with 19 phenolic standards.

Rapid analysis and authentication of Chinese propolis using nanoelectrospray ionization mass spectrometry combined with machine learning

In this study, we established a simple, rapid, and high-throughput method for the analysis and classification of propolis samples. We utilized nanoESI-MS to analyze 37 samples of propolis from China for the first time, obtaining characteristic fingerprint spectra in negative ion mode, which were then integrated with multivariate analysis to explore variations between water extract of propolis (WEP) and ethanol extract of propolis (EEP). Furthermore, we categorized propolis samples based on different climate zones and colors, screening 10 differential metabolites among propolis from various climate zones, and 11 differential metabolites among propolis samples of different color. By employing machine learning models, we achieved high-precision discrimination and prediction between samples from different climate zones and colors, achieving predictive accuracies of 95.6% and 85.6%, respectively. These results highlight the significant potential of the nanoESI-MS coupled with machine learning methodology for precise classification within the realm of food products.

Chemical Characterization and Biological Properties Assessment of Euphorbia resinifera and Euphorbia officinarum Moroccan Propolis.

Although the plants of the genus Euphorbia are largely exploited by therapists in Morocco, the composition and antibacterial activities of propolis from these plants are still unknown. To address this gap, this study aimed to characterize the pollen type, the volatile compounds, and the phenolic and mineral profiles of three Euphorbia propolis samples collected in Morocco and evaluate their antimicrobial activities. The minimum inhibitory concentration of the propolis samples was determined by the microdilution method, and the anti-adherence activity was evaluated by the crystal violet assay. The examination of anti-quorum-sensing proprieties was performed using the biosensor Chromobacterium violaceum CV026. Pollen analysis revealed that Euphorbia resinifera pollen dominated in the P1 sample (58%), while E. officinarum pollen dominated in the P2 and P3 samples (44%). The volatile compounds were primarily composed of monoterpene hydrocarbons, constituting 35% in P1 and 31% in P2, with α-pinene being the major component in both cases, at 16% in P1 and 15% in P2. Calcium (Ca) was the predominant mineral element in both E. resinifera (P1) and E. officinarum (P2 and P3) propolis samples. Higher levels of phenols, flavonoids and dihydroflavonoids were detected in the E. officinarum P2 sample. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value ranged from 50 to 450 µL/mL against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Euphorbia propolis displayed the ability to inhibit quorum sensing in the biosensor C. violaceum CV026 and disrupted bacterial biofilm formation, including that of resistant bacterial pathogens. In summary, the current study evidences the potential use of E. officinarum propolis (P2 and P3) to combat important features of resistant pathogenic bacteria, such as quorum sensing and biofilm formation.

Synergistic effect of potential alpha-amylase inhibitors from Egyptian propolis with acarbose using in silico and in vitro combination analysis

BackgroundType 2 Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an affliction impacting the quality of life of millions of people worldwide. An approach used in the management of Type 2 DM involves the use of the carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzyme inhibitor, acarbose. Although acarbose has long been the go-to drug in this key approach, it has become apparent that its side effects negatively impact patient adherence and subsequently, therapeutic outcomes. Similar to acarbose in its mechanism of action, bee propolis, a unique natural adhesive biomass consisting of biologically active metabolites, has been found to have antidiabetic potential through its inhibition of α-amylase. To minimize the need for ultimately novel agents while simultaneously aiming to decrease the side effects of acarbose and enhance its efficacy, combination drug therapy has become a promising pharmacotherapeutic strategy and a focal point of this study.MethodsComputer-aided molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations accompanied by in vitro testing were used to mine novel, pharmacologically active chemical entities from Egyptian propolis to combat Type 2 DM. Glide docking was utilized for a structure-based virtual screening of the largest in-house library of Egyptian propolis metabolites gathered from literature, in addition to GC–MS analysis of the propolis sample under investigation. Thereafter, combination analysis by means of fixed-ratio combinations of acarbose with propolis and the top chosen propolis-derived phytoligand was implemented.ResultsAucubin, identified for the first time in propolis worldwide and kaempferol were the most promising virtual hits. Subsequent in vitro α-amylase inhibitory assay demonstrated the ability of these hits to significantly inhibit the enzyme in a dose-dependent manner with an IC50 of 2.37 ± 0.02 mM and 4.84 ± 0.14 mM, respectively. The binary combination of acarbose with each of propolis and kaempferol displayed maximal synergy at lower effect levels. Molecular docking and MD simulations revealed a cooperative binding mode between kaempferol and acarbose within the active site.ConclusionThe suggested strategy seems imperative to ensure a steady supply of new therapeutic entities sourced from Egyptian propolis to regress the development of DM. Further pharmacological in vivo investigations are required to confirm the potent antidiabetic potential of the studied combination.

Potential Antidiabetic Activity of Apis mellifera Propolis Extraction Obtained with Ultrasound.

Recent studies have linked phenolic compounds to the inhibition of digestive enzymes. Propolis extract is consumed or applied as a traditional treatment for some diseases. More than 500 chemical compounds have been identified in propolis composition worldwide. This research aimed to determine Mexican propolis extracts' total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, antioxidant activity, and digestive enzyme inhibitory activity (ɑ-amylase and ɑ-glucosidase). In vitro assays measured the possible effect on bioactive compounds after digestion. Four samples of propolis from different regions of the state of Oaxaca (Mexico) were tested (Eloxochitlán (PE), Teotitlán (PT), San Pedro (PSP), and San Jerónimo (PSJ)). Ethanol extractions were performed using ultrasound. The extract with the highest phenolic content was PE with 15,362.4 ± 225 mg GAE/100 g. Regarding the flavonoid content, the highest amount was found in PT with 8084.6 ± 19 mg QE/100 g. ABTS•+ and DPPH• radicals were evaluated. The extract with the best inhibition concentration was PE with 33,307.1 ± 567 mg ET/100 g. After simulated digestion, phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity decreased by 96%. In contrast, antidiabetic activity, quantified as inhibition of ɑ-amylase and ɑ-glucosidase, showed a mean decrease in enzyme activity of approximately 50% after the intestinal phase. Therefore, it is concluded that propolis extracts could be a natural alternative for treating diabetes, and it would be necessary to develop a protective mechanism to incorporate them into foods.

Comparison of some biological activities of propolis and bee bread samples obtained from Apis mellifera Anatoliaca and its Muğla and Efe ecotypes

Honey and other bee products have been extensively researched in recent years due to the demand for natural products with nutritional and therapeutic qualities, as they contain high levels of biologically active compounds and valuable nutrients. In this study, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities of bee bread and propolis samples formed after colony development by bees of different races and ecotypes accepted to core colonies in the same location were evaluated. Total phenolic, flavonoid and antioxidant content values were the the highest in propolis samples, especially in propolis from Apis mellifera anatoliaca. Values of this type gave the most effective results in almost all of the other tests performed, such as DPPH free radical scavenging, lipid peroxidation inhibition, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity. In addition, the amount of phenolics detected in the phenolic component analysis of this species is higher. It was surprising that propolis samples obtained from Efe and Muğla ecotypes showed higher values, respectively, in the test for chelating activity with Fe. The fact that the values calculated for the bee breads were lower in all cases compared to the propolis samples, the highest values were calculated for the bee bread harvested from the efe ecotype, in contrast to the propolis ecotypes. None of the tested bee breads showed antimicrobial activity on selected pathogenic bacteria. Thus, with this study, it was evaluated how the differences arising from both race and ecotype and the type of bee product reflected on biological activities.

Elemental Analysis of Tetragonula laeviceps Propolis by X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy

Propolis, a natural substance produced by stingless bees (Tetragonula laeviceps), consists of a blend of resins collected from plant exudates and other botanical sources. Bees utilize propolis for hive maintenance and protection against predators. Propolis is widely used in various therapeutic formulations, including treatments for upper respiratory tract infections, burns, acne, herpes, and neurodermatitis. The propolis samples were analyzed using Olympus DELTA Professional Handheld XRF Analyzer. This study employs X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis to investigate the elemental composition of propolis. Data results of XRF were presented in percentage with limit detection into ppm (%, ppm). The result showed that the three most dominant elements composition in propolis sample from FB 1 were Ca(77.12%) ; K(11.59%), and SO3(5.18%). Propolis Sample from KP 1 were Fe(31.73%);Ca (26.42%); and K(14.04%). Propolis Sample from KP 2 were K(28.32%); P2O5(24.35%); and Ca(18.82%). The conclusion was that the three propolis samples contained 2 constant elements, namely Calcium (Ca) and Potassium (K). Calcium and Potassium were found to be essential functions in all organisms.

Chemical Content by LC–MS/MS, Antiglaucoma, and Antioxidant Activity of Propolis Samples From Different Regions of Türkiye

Propolis is a sticky substance produced by bees because of the reaction of beeswax, pollen, and bee enzymes. Particularly, their biological activity and chemical content attract attention. Thus, in this study, the total amount of phenolic and flavonoid substances, Fe3+‐Fe2+, Cu2+ (cupric ions reducing activity [CUPRAC]), and Fe3+‐TPTZ (ferric ions reducing antioxidant power [FRAP]) reducing, and DPPH• and ABTS•+ scavenging assays in vitro antioxidant properties of propolis samples obtained from four different provinces of Türkiye were determined. In addition, the chemical content of propolis samples was quantitatively determined by LC–MS/MS, and the antiglaucoma property was revealed by hCAII enzyme inhibition. Propolis samples from Ordu presented the highest amounts of total phenolic and flavonoid content (492.3 ± 5.8 and 96.1 ± 2.1, respectively) and also highest antioxidant activity (DPPH• and ABTS•+ IC50 [μg/mL]: 8.884 ± 0.84 and 4.589 ± 0.80, respectively; Fe+3, CUPRAC, and FRAP: 1.051 ± 0.012, 1.021 ± 0.008, and 0.957 ± 0.007 μg/mL, respectively). hCAII enzyme inhibition was highest in Muş propolis (IC50 [μg/mL]: 8.6) as determined. By LC–MS/MS, 53 different components were screened and 35 bioactive components were determined. According to the results, propolis was found to be a raw material because it contains high concentrations of acacetin, chrysin, caffeic acid, and quinic acid (123.824, 24.759, 47.779, and 16.32 mg analyte/g extract, respectively).

Red Propolis: Chemical and Mid-Infrared Spectroscopic Characterization and Classification by Geographic Origin

In this paper, we report the characterization of Brazilian red propolis from two origins. The commercial value of this product is due to its composition and bioactivity, which depend on geographical factors. Total and individual phenolic, antioxidant, and medium infrared spectroscopic (MIR) characterization of 72 red propolis samples from two origins (Bahia (BA) and Rio Grande do Norte (RN), Brazil) were performed. Samples from RN showed higher concentrations of biomarkers. The BA samples showed higher antioxidant capacity despite having lower concentrations of the red propolis biomarker molecules when compared to the RN samples. The MIRS showed differences regarding the origin. The principal component analysis confirmed the differences, generating well-defined groups. Linear discriminant analysis or discriminant analysis and and partial least squares discriminant analysis showed excellent model performance. The models with MIRS data from raw propolis have a high correct classification rate and require no sample preparation. These findings can affect red propolis production, boosting sustainable extractivism, and changing the reality of small communities.