Potential role of propolis in wound healing: Biological properties and therapeutic activities
Biomed Pharmacother. 2017 Dec 26;98:469-483
Propolis is a resinous mixture that honey bees collect from the tree buds, sap flows, or other botanical sources. The chemical composition of propolis varies and depends on the geographical area, time of collection, seasonality, illumination, altitude, and food availability during propolis exploitation. The goal of this review is to discuss important concepts including mechanisms of action and therapeutic activities of propolis.
The PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for the literature published from January the 1st 2000 to October the 1st 2017. Sixteen animals and three clinical studies were included. A quantitative and qualitative review was performed on the clinical trials and the animal studies were comprehensively overviewed. In this study, the clinical trials have been combined and the results were provided as meta-analysis. Propolis is a non-toxic natural product; however some cases of allergy and contact dermatitis to this compound have been described mainly among beekeepers. An important factor in impaired wound healing is biofilm formation; propolis as an anti-microbial agent can reduce biofilm generation and result in accelerated healing processes.
Most of the in vivo studies on various wound models suggested the beneficial roles of propolis on experimental wound healing and this has also been approved in the clinical trial studies. However, there is a lack of information concerning, dose, side effects and clinical effectiveness of propolis on wounds. As the effectiveness of propolis between different products is variable, more characterizations should be done and future investigations comparing different propolis based products and characterization of their specific roles on different models of wounds are highly appreciated.
Sunday, December 31, 2017
Saturday, December 30, 2017
Honeybee-Inspired Needles Decrease Insertion Force
Novel Design of Honeybee-inspired Needles for Percutaneous Procedure
Bioinspir Biomim. 2017 Dec 20
The focus of this paper is to present new designs of innovative bioinspired needles to be used during percutaneous procedures.
Insect stingers have been known to easily penetrate soft tissues. Bioinspired needles mimicking the barbs in a honeybee stinger were developed for a smaller insertion force, which can provide a less invasive procedure. Decreasing the insertion force will decrease the tissue deformation, which is essential for a more accurate targeting. In this study, some design parameters, in particular, barb shape and geometry (i.e., front angle, back angle, and height) were defined and their effects on the insertion force were investigated. Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology was used to manufacture bioinspired needles.
A specially-designed insertion test setup using tissue mimicking Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) gels was developed to measure the insertion and extraction forces. The barb design parameters were then experimentally modified through detailed experimental procedures to further reduce the insertion force. Different scales of the barbed needles were designed and used to explore the size-scale effect on the insertion force. To further investigate the efficacy of the proposed needle design in real surgeries, preliminary ex-vivo insertion tests into bovine liver tissue were performed.
Our results show that the insertion force of the needles in different scales decreased by 21-35% in PVC gel insertion tests and by 46% in bovine liver tissue insertion tests.
Bioinspir Biomim. 2017 Dec 20
The focus of this paper is to present new designs of innovative bioinspired needles to be used during percutaneous procedures.
Insect stingers have been known to easily penetrate soft tissues. Bioinspired needles mimicking the barbs in a honeybee stinger were developed for a smaller insertion force, which can provide a less invasive procedure. Decreasing the insertion force will decrease the tissue deformation, which is essential for a more accurate targeting. In this study, some design parameters, in particular, barb shape and geometry (i.e., front angle, back angle, and height) were defined and their effects on the insertion force were investigated. Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology was used to manufacture bioinspired needles.
A specially-designed insertion test setup using tissue mimicking Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) gels was developed to measure the insertion and extraction forces. The barb design parameters were then experimentally modified through detailed experimental procedures to further reduce the insertion force. Different scales of the barbed needles were designed and used to explore the size-scale effect on the insertion force. To further investigate the efficacy of the proposed needle design in real surgeries, preliminary ex-vivo insertion tests into bovine liver tissue were performed.
Our results show that the insertion force of the needles in different scales decreased by 21-35% in PVC gel insertion tests and by 46% in bovine liver tissue insertion tests.
Friday, December 29, 2017
By-Products From Beeswax Recycling Process Represent Rich Source f Phytochemicals with Antioxidant Capacity and Anticancer Activity
Are by-products from beeswax recycling process a new promising source of bioactive compounds with biomedical properties?
Food Chem Toxicol. 2017 Dec 25. pii: S0278-6915(17)30789-5
During the process of beeswax recycling, many industrial derivatives are obtained. These matrices may have an interesting healthy and commercial potential but to date they have not been properly studied.
The aim of the present work was to evaluate the proximal and phytochemical composition, the antioxidant capacity and cytotoxic effects of two by-products from beeswax recycling process named MUD 1 and MUD 2 on liver hepatocellular carcinoma. Our results showed that MUD 1 presented the highest (P < .05) fiber, protein, carbohydrate, polyphenol and flavonoid concentration, as well as the highest (P < .05) total antioxidant capacity than the MUD 2 samples. MUD1 exerted also anticancer activity on HepG2 cells, by reducing cellular viability, increasing intracellular ROS levels and affecting mitochondrial functionality in a dose-dependent manner.
We showed for the first time that by-products from beeswax recycling process can represent a rich source of phytochemicals with high total antioxidant capacity and anticancer activity; however, further researches are necessary to evaluate their potentiality for human health by in vivo studies.
Food Chem Toxicol. 2017 Dec 25. pii: S0278-6915(17)30789-5
During the process of beeswax recycling, many industrial derivatives are obtained. These matrices may have an interesting healthy and commercial potential but to date they have not been properly studied.
The aim of the present work was to evaluate the proximal and phytochemical composition, the antioxidant capacity and cytotoxic effects of two by-products from beeswax recycling process named MUD 1 and MUD 2 on liver hepatocellular carcinoma. Our results showed that MUD 1 presented the highest (P < .05) fiber, protein, carbohydrate, polyphenol and flavonoid concentration, as well as the highest (P < .05) total antioxidant capacity than the MUD 2 samples. MUD1 exerted also anticancer activity on HepG2 cells, by reducing cellular viability, increasing intracellular ROS levels and affecting mitochondrial functionality in a dose-dependent manner.
We showed for the first time that by-products from beeswax recycling process can represent a rich source of phytochemicals with high total antioxidant capacity and anticancer activity; however, further researches are necessary to evaluate their potentiality for human health by in vivo studies.
Thursday, December 28, 2017
Volatile Compounds in Brazilian, Argentinian and Venezuelan Propolis Analysed
Comparative Analysis of Volatile Compound Profiles of Propolis From Different Provenances
J Sci Food Agric. 2017 Dec 27
BACKGROUND:
Propolis is a complex mixture that honey bees produce from the exudates of various plants and presents many medicinal properties. Its chemical compositions varies according to the phytogeography characteristics of each region, among others. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in Venezuelan propolis and compare with reference samples such as Brazilian and Argentinian ones.
RESULTS:
A total of 90 VOCs were identified in a series of propolis samples using both Solid-Phase Microextraction (SPME) and Dynamic Headspace (DHS), both coupled to C-EI-MS. In the case of Venezuelan propolis, sesquiterpenes, esters, aromatic compounds and aliphatic hydrocarbons were identified. The limonene was found only in Venezuelan samples being the first time it is identified in samples from this country. In the case of green propolis, β-caryophyllene and nerolidol were the major ones. As for the Argentinian samples, the prenyl acetate, benzyl acetate, and 2-phenylethyl acetate were detected only in these samples.
CONCLUSIONS:
Possible chemical markers of natural sources such as limonene were detected using DHS extraction. Several compounds have also been identified for the first time in Venezuelan propolis. Cluster analysis allowed to relate propolis VOCs profile with their provenance.
J Sci Food Agric. 2017 Dec 27
BACKGROUND:
Propolis is a complex mixture that honey bees produce from the exudates of various plants and presents many medicinal properties. Its chemical compositions varies according to the phytogeography characteristics of each region, among others. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in Venezuelan propolis and compare with reference samples such as Brazilian and Argentinian ones.
RESULTS:
A total of 90 VOCs were identified in a series of propolis samples using both Solid-Phase Microextraction (SPME) and Dynamic Headspace (DHS), both coupled to C-EI-MS. In the case of Venezuelan propolis, sesquiterpenes, esters, aromatic compounds and aliphatic hydrocarbons were identified. The limonene was found only in Venezuelan samples being the first time it is identified in samples from this country. In the case of green propolis, β-caryophyllene and nerolidol were the major ones. As for the Argentinian samples, the prenyl acetate, benzyl acetate, and 2-phenylethyl acetate were detected only in these samples.
CONCLUSIONS:
Possible chemical markers of natural sources such as limonene were detected using DHS extraction. Several compounds have also been identified for the first time in Venezuelan propolis. Cluster analysis allowed to relate propolis VOCs profile with their provenance.
Propolis May Help Treat White-Nose Syndrome in Bats
Evidence for Anti-Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd) Activity of Propolis
Antibiotics (Basel). 2017 Dec 21;7(1)
White-nose syndrome (WNS) in bats, caused by Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), is a cutaneous infection that has devastated North American bat populations since 2007. At present, there is no effective method for controlling this disease.
Here, we evaluated the effect of propolis against Pd in vitro. Using Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) medium, approximately 1.7 × 10⁷ conidia spores of the Pd strain M3906-2/mL were spread on each plate and grown to form a consistent lawn. A Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion assay was employed using different concentrations of propolis (1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%), in plates incubated at 8 °C and 15 °C. At 8 °C and 15 °C, as the concentration of propolis increased, there was an increasing zone of inhibition (ZOI), reaching the highest degree at 10% and 25% concentrations, respectively.
A germule suppression assay showed a similar effect on Pd conidia germination. A MALDI-TOF-MS analysis of propolis revealed multiple constituents with a potential anti-Pd activity, including cinnamic acid, p-coumaric acid, and dihydrochalcones, which could be further tested for their individual effects. Our study suggests that propolis or its individual constituents might be suitable products against Pd.
Antibiotics (Basel). 2017 Dec 21;7(1)
White-nose syndrome (WNS) in bats, caused by Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), is a cutaneous infection that has devastated North American bat populations since 2007. At present, there is no effective method for controlling this disease.
Here, we evaluated the effect of propolis against Pd in vitro. Using Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) medium, approximately 1.7 × 10⁷ conidia spores of the Pd strain M3906-2/mL were spread on each plate and grown to form a consistent lawn. A Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion assay was employed using different concentrations of propolis (1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%), in plates incubated at 8 °C and 15 °C. At 8 °C and 15 °C, as the concentration of propolis increased, there was an increasing zone of inhibition (ZOI), reaching the highest degree at 10% and 25% concentrations, respectively.
A germule suppression assay showed a similar effect on Pd conidia germination. A MALDI-TOF-MS analysis of propolis revealed multiple constituents with a potential anti-Pd activity, including cinnamic acid, p-coumaric acid, and dihydrochalcones, which could be further tested for their individual effects. Our study suggests that propolis or its individual constituents might be suitable products against Pd.
Wednesday, December 27, 2017
Propolis Better Than Aciclovir for Treating Cold Sores
Comparative Study with a Lip Balm Containing 0.5% Propolis Special Extract GH 2002 versus 5% Aciclovir Cream in Patients with Herpes Labialis in the Papular/Erythematous Stage: A Single-blind, Randomized, Two-arm Study.
Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2017 Oct 14;88:1-7
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:
This controlled single-blind trial compared the efficacy of a lip balm with propolis special extract GH 2002 at a concentration of 0.5% in the treatment of episodes of herpes labialis with that of 5% aciclovir cream.
METHODS:
Patients in the erythematous/papular stage were randomized: 189 patients were treated with propolis cream, 190 patients were treated with aciclovir cream (intention-to-treat population). Application was 5 times daily. The primary parameter was the difference in median time to complete encrustation or epithelialization of lesions. Secondary parameters were the development of typical herpes symptoms (eg, pain, burning and itching, tension, and swelling), the global assessment of efficacy, and the safety of application.
RESULTS:
The predefined clinical situation was reached after a median of 4 days with propolis and after 5 days with aciclovir (P < 0.0001). Significant differences in favor of the study preparation were found with all secondary parameters and symptoms. No allergic reactions, local irritations, or other adverse events were observed.
CONCLUSIONS:
A formulation of 0.5% propolis GH 2002 extract lip balm was found to be superior in the treatment of episodes of herpes labialis over 5% aciclovir cream in patients in the papular/erythematous phase upon inclusion.
Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2017 Oct 14;88:1-7
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:
This controlled single-blind trial compared the efficacy of a lip balm with propolis special extract GH 2002 at a concentration of 0.5% in the treatment of episodes of herpes labialis with that of 5% aciclovir cream.
METHODS:
Patients in the erythematous/papular stage were randomized: 189 patients were treated with propolis cream, 190 patients were treated with aciclovir cream (intention-to-treat population). Application was 5 times daily. The primary parameter was the difference in median time to complete encrustation or epithelialization of lesions. Secondary parameters were the development of typical herpes symptoms (eg, pain, burning and itching, tension, and swelling), the global assessment of efficacy, and the safety of application.
RESULTS:
The predefined clinical situation was reached after a median of 4 days with propolis and after 5 days with aciclovir (P < 0.0001). Significant differences in favor of the study preparation were found with all secondary parameters and symptoms. No allergic reactions, local irritations, or other adverse events were observed.
CONCLUSIONS:
A formulation of 0.5% propolis GH 2002 extract lip balm was found to be superior in the treatment of episodes of herpes labialis over 5% aciclovir cream in patients in the papular/erythematous phase upon inclusion.
Tuesday, December 26, 2017
Portuguese Honeys Possess Excellent Anti-Biofilm Activity
Synergistic Antimicrobial Interaction between Honey and Phage against Escherichia coli Biofilms
Front Microbiol. 2017 Dec 8;8:2407
Chronic wounds afford a hostile environment of damaged tissues that allow bacterial proliferation and further wound colonization. Escherichia coli is among the most common colonizers of infected wounds and it is a prolific biofilm former.
Living in biofilm communities, cells are protected, become more difficult to control and eradicate, and less susceptible to antibiotic therapy. This work presents insights into the proceedings triggering E. coli biofilm control with phage, honey, and their combination, achieved through standard antimicrobial activity assays, zeta potential and flow cytometry studies and further visual insights sought by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy.
Two Portuguese honeys (PF2 and U3) with different floral origin and an E. coli-specific phage (EC3a), possessing depolymerase activity, were tested against 24- and 48-h-old biofilms. Synergic and additive effects were perceived in some phage-honey experiments.
Combined therapy prompted similar phenomena in biofilm cells, visualized by electron microscopy, as the individual treatments. Honey caused minor membrane perturbations to complete collapse and consequent discharge of cytoplasmic content, and phage completely destroyed cells leaving only vesicle-like structures and debris.
Our experiments show that the addition of phage to low honey concentrations is advantageous, and that even fourfold diluted honey combined with phage, presents no loss of antibacterial activity toward E. coli. Portuguese honeys possess excellent antibiofilm activity and may be potential alternative therapeutic agents in biofilm-related wound infection. Furthermore, to our knowledge this is the first study that assessed the impacts of phage-honey combinations in bacterial cells.
The synergistic effect obtained was shown to be promising, since the antiviral effect of honey limits the emergence of phage resistant phenotypes.
Front Microbiol. 2017 Dec 8;8:2407
Chronic wounds afford a hostile environment of damaged tissues that allow bacterial proliferation and further wound colonization. Escherichia coli is among the most common colonizers of infected wounds and it is a prolific biofilm former.
Living in biofilm communities, cells are protected, become more difficult to control and eradicate, and less susceptible to antibiotic therapy. This work presents insights into the proceedings triggering E. coli biofilm control with phage, honey, and their combination, achieved through standard antimicrobial activity assays, zeta potential and flow cytometry studies and further visual insights sought by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy.
Two Portuguese honeys (PF2 and U3) with different floral origin and an E. coli-specific phage (EC3a), possessing depolymerase activity, were tested against 24- and 48-h-old biofilms. Synergic and additive effects were perceived in some phage-honey experiments.
Combined therapy prompted similar phenomena in biofilm cells, visualized by electron microscopy, as the individual treatments. Honey caused minor membrane perturbations to complete collapse and consequent discharge of cytoplasmic content, and phage completely destroyed cells leaving only vesicle-like structures and debris.
Our experiments show that the addition of phage to low honey concentrations is advantageous, and that even fourfold diluted honey combined with phage, presents no loss of antibacterial activity toward E. coli. Portuguese honeys possess excellent antibiofilm activity and may be potential alternative therapeutic agents in biofilm-related wound infection. Furthermore, to our knowledge this is the first study that assessed the impacts of phage-honey combinations in bacterial cells.
The synergistic effect obtained was shown to be promising, since the antiviral effect of honey limits the emergence of phage resistant phenotypes.
Monday, December 25, 2017
Propolis may Help Treat a Sore Throat
The best folk remedy for sore throat
Mice Times
Propolis to dissolve. Propolis, like honey, has healing properties and it can be called one of the best natural antiseptics. If a sore throat, instead of drugstore candy dissolve a piece of propolis several times a day.
Mice Times
Propolis to dissolve. Propolis, like honey, has healing properties and it can be called one of the best natural antiseptics. If a sore throat, instead of drugstore candy dissolve a piece of propolis several times a day.
Sunday, December 24, 2017
Propolis May Help Treat White-nose Syndrome (WNS) in Bats
Evidence for Anti-Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd) Activity of Propolis
Antibiotics (Basel). 2017 Dec 21;7(1)
White-nose syndrome (WNS) in bats, caused by Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), is a cutaneous infection that has devastated North American bat populations since 2007. At present, there is no effective method for controlling this disease.
Here, we evaluated the effect of propolis against Pd in vitro. Using Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) medium, approximately 1.7 × 10⁷ conidia spores of the Pd strain M3906-2/mL were spread on each plate and grown to form a consistent lawn. A Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion assay was employed using different concentrations of propolis (1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%), in plates incubated at 8 °C and 15 °C. At 8 °C and 15 °C, as the concentration of propolis increased, there was an increasing zone of inhibition (ZOI), reaching the highest degree at 10% and 25% concentrations, respectively.
A germule suppression assay showed a similar effect on Pd conidia germination. A MALDI-TOF-MS analysis of propolis revealed multiple constituents with a potential anti-Pd activity, including cinnamic acid, p-coumaric acid, and dihydrochalcones, which could be further tested for their individual effects.
Our study suggests that propolis or its individual constituents might be suitable products against Pd.
Saturday, December 23, 2017
Consumption of 'Mad Honey' for Medicinal Purposes Not Recommended
Effect on oxidative stress, hepatic chemical metabolizing parameters, and genotoxic damage of mad honey intake in rats
Hum Exp Toxicol. 2017 Jan 1:960327117745691
A total of 66 male Wistar rats were used and six groups (control: 10 animals and experimental: 12 animals) were formed. While a separate control group was established for each study period, mad honey application to the animals in the experimental group was carried out with a single dose (12.5 g kg-1 body weight (b.w.); acute stage), at a dose of 7.5 g kg-1 b.w. for 21 days (subacute stage), and at a dose of 5 g kg-1 b.w. for 60 days (chronic stage).
Tissue and blood oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE), superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione (GSH) peroxidase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase), hepatic chemical metabolizing parameters in the liver (cytochrome P450 2E1, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH)-cytochrome b5 reductase, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-cytochrome c reductase (CYTC), GSH S-transferase (GST), and GSH), and micronucleus and comet test in some samples were examined.
Findings from the study showed that single and repeated doses given over the period increased MDA, NO, and HNE levels while decreasing/increasing tissue and blood antioxidant enzyme activities. From hepatic chemical metabolizing parameters, GST activity increased in the subacute and chronic stages and CYTC activity increased in the acute period, whereas GSH level decreased in the subacute stage. Changes in tail and head intensities were found in most of the comet results.
Mad honey caused oxidative stresses for each exposure period and made some significant changes on the comet test in certain periods for some samples obtained. In other words, according to the available research results obtained, careless consumption of mad honey for different medical purposes is not appropriate.
Hum Exp Toxicol. 2017 Jan 1:960327117745691
A total of 66 male Wistar rats were used and six groups (control: 10 animals and experimental: 12 animals) were formed. While a separate control group was established for each study period, mad honey application to the animals in the experimental group was carried out with a single dose (12.5 g kg-1 body weight (b.w.); acute stage), at a dose of 7.5 g kg-1 b.w. for 21 days (subacute stage), and at a dose of 5 g kg-1 b.w. for 60 days (chronic stage).
Tissue and blood oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE), superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione (GSH) peroxidase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase), hepatic chemical metabolizing parameters in the liver (cytochrome P450 2E1, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH)-cytochrome b5 reductase, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-cytochrome c reductase (CYTC), GSH S-transferase (GST), and GSH), and micronucleus and comet test in some samples were examined.
Findings from the study showed that single and repeated doses given over the period increased MDA, NO, and HNE levels while decreasing/increasing tissue and blood antioxidant enzyme activities. From hepatic chemical metabolizing parameters, GST activity increased in the subacute and chronic stages and CYTC activity increased in the acute period, whereas GSH level decreased in the subacute stage. Changes in tail and head intensities were found in most of the comet results.
Mad honey caused oxidative stresses for each exposure period and made some significant changes on the comet test in certain periods for some samples obtained. In other words, according to the available research results obtained, careless consumption of mad honey for different medical purposes is not appropriate.
Friday, December 22, 2017
Biologically Active Components of Bee Venom
Isolation and Identification of Biologically Active Components from the Honey Bee Venom Apis Mellifera L. Caucasica
Medcrave
The venom of the European honey bee Apis mellifera is an intricate mixture of chemical compositions, including proteins, peptides, enzymes, and other small molecules. Lately, there has
been growing interest in the use of melittin, due to its wide range of biological and potential therapeutic applications. Melittin, which is considered to be an antimicrobial, antitumor, and antiinflammatory peptide, is the main component (≥50% (w/w)) of honey bee venom and is widely used in oriental medicine and studied as an alternative for treating drug-resistant infections. In parallel to antimicrobial peptides for therapeutic use in humans, melittin can be used to fight economically important plant pathogens that limit crop production globally. Phospholipase
A2 (PLA2) and hyaluronidase (HYA) are the two major enzymatic proteins present in the bee venom [6,7]. Both of these enzymes are classified as major allergens according to the International
Union of Immunological Societies, as they are capable of inducing
the IgE response in susceptible individuals.
The results of study confirm that a high purity and recovery yield of melittin can be obtained with a one-step purification method with strong cationexchange chromatography resins using
sodium phosphate buffer at pH 6...
Medcrave
The venom of the European honey bee Apis mellifera is an intricate mixture of chemical compositions, including proteins, peptides, enzymes, and other small molecules. Lately, there has
been growing interest in the use of melittin, due to its wide range of biological and potential therapeutic applications. Melittin, which is considered to be an antimicrobial, antitumor, and antiinflammatory peptide, is the main component (≥50% (w/w)) of honey bee venom and is widely used in oriental medicine and studied as an alternative for treating drug-resistant infections. In parallel to antimicrobial peptides for therapeutic use in humans, melittin can be used to fight economically important plant pathogens that limit crop production globally. Phospholipase
A2 (PLA2) and hyaluronidase (HYA) are the two major enzymatic proteins present in the bee venom [6,7]. Both of these enzymes are classified as major allergens according to the International
Union of Immunological Societies, as they are capable of inducing
the IgE response in susceptible individuals.
The results of study confirm that a high purity and recovery yield of melittin can be obtained with a one-step purification method with strong cationexchange chromatography resins using
sodium phosphate buffer at pH 6...
Thursday, December 21, 2017
Propolis Component Helps Treat Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH)
Chrysin attenuates testosterone-induced benign prostate hyperplasia in rats
Food Chem Toxicol. 2017 Dec 14;111:650-659
Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) is a common age-related health problem affecting almost 3 out of 4 men in their sixties. Chrysin is a dietary phytoestrogen found naturally in bee propolis and various plant extracts. It possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties. The current study was conducted to explore the role chrysin plays in protection against testosterone-induced BPH in rats. On grounds of a preliminary experiment, a dose of chrysin (50 mg/kg) was chosen for further investigation. Testosterone significantly depleted glutathione, suppressed superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, and elevated lipid peroxidation. Moreover, it markedly scaled down the level of cleaved caspase-3 enzyme, reduced Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and mRNA expression of p53 and p21; conversely, protein expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen was enhanced. Chrysin alleviated testosterone-induced oxidative stress and restored cleaved caspase-3 level, Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and mRNA expression of p53 and p21 to almost control levels. Chrysin prevented the increase in binding activity of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65 subunit, mRNA expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R). These data highlight the protective role of chrysin against experimentally-induced BPH. This is attributed - at least partly - to its antioxidant, antiproliferative and proapoptotic properties.
Food Chem Toxicol. 2017 Dec 14;111:650-659
Wednesday, December 20, 2017
Propolis Helps Treat the Common Cold
Propolis nasal spray effectively improves recovery from infectious acute rhinitis and common cold symptoms in children: a pilot study
J Biol Regul Homeost Agents. 2017 Oct-Dec;31(4):943-950.
Currently, treatment for acute rhinitis (AR) is symptomatic but no clear agreement exists to control its development. Propolis extract may appear as a promising natural treatment for AR, but its beneficial effects have not yet been fully tested. Forty children suffering from AR and common cold symptoms aged between 2-12 years were enrolled in a prospective epidemiological multicentre study.
A 7-day treatment with propolis nasal spray (3 times/day) was applied and a comparison of symptomatology, subjective global improvement and quality of life (QoL) between baseline (day 1) and final (day 7) visits were performed. The main goal was to evaluate the changes in symptom intensity using the Jackson's scoring test. After 7 days of treatment there was a significant decrease of symptoms both in the total score (p less than 0.0001) and in regard to each AR symptom (p less than 0.01). On the whole, the sample reported no symptoms by day 7, and the resolution of symptoms occurred approximately at day 4. Furthermore, there was no need for supplementary treatment. Both the subjective global improvement impression and the QoL of patients appeared to significantly improve after treatment. No adverse events (AEs) were found globally.
It can be concluded that propolis nasal spray effectively improves recovery from infectious AR and common cold symptoms in children and is an optimal alternative in the treatment of this disease without need for any adjuvant treatment.
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
Propolis Component Protects Against Lung Injury
Discovery of caffeic acid phenethyl ester derivatives as novel myeloid differentiation protein 2 inhibitors for treatment of acute lung injury
Eur J Med Chem. 2018 Jan 1;143:361-375
Myeloid differentiation protein 2 (MD2) is an essential molecule which recognizes lipopolysaccharide (LPS), leading to initiation of inflammation through the activation of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) from propolis of honeybee hives could interfere interactions between LPS and the TLR4/MD2 complex, and thereby has promising anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we designed and synthesized 48 CAPE derivatives and evaluated their anti-inflammatory activities in mouse primary peritoneal macrophages (MPMs) activated by LPS. The most active compound, 10s, was found to bind with MD2 with high affinity, which prevented formation of the LPS/MD2/TLR4 complex. The binding mode of 10s revealed that the major interactions with MD2 were established via two key hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. Furthermore, 10s showed remarkable protective effects against LPS-caused ALI (acute lung injury) in vivo. Taken together, this work provides new lead structures and candidates as MD2 inhibitors for the development of anti-inflammatory drugs.
Myeloid differentiation protein 2 (MD2) is an essential molecule which recognizes lipopolysaccharide (LPS), leading to initiation of inflammation through the activation of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) from propolis of honeybee hives could interfere interactions between LPS and the TLR4/MD2 complex, and thereby has promising anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we designed and synthesized 48 CAPE derivatives and evaluated their anti-inflammatory activities in mouse primary peritoneal macrophages (MPMs) activated by LPS. The most active compound, 10s, was found to bind with MD2 with high affinity, which prevented formation of the LPS/MD2/TLR4 complex. The binding mode of 10s revealed that the major interactions with MD2 were established via two key hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. Furthermore, 10s showed remarkable protective effects against LPS-caused ALI (acute lung injury) in vivo. Taken together, this work provides new lead structures and candidates as MD2 inhibitors for the development of anti-inflammatory drugs.
Monday, December 18, 2017
Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Chestnut Honey
Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of Casteanea sativa Miller chestnut honey produced on Mount Etna (Sicily)
Nat Prod Res. 2017 Dec 13:1-8
The aim of this study was the evaluation of antibacterial and antioxidant properties of Monofloral Etna Castanea sativa Miller honeys. Escherichia coli ATCC 25,922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27,853, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29,211 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29,213 were investigated for their susceptibilities to two different honeys. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by ORAC, NO scavenger assays, FRAP and DPPH.
Antioxidant activity and antibacterial properties were compared with chestnut honeys from different geographical areas and with Manuka honey. UPLC-MS/MS was used for major components characterisation.
Sunday, December 17, 2017
Brazilian Stingless Bee Propolis High in Phenols, Flavonoids, Antioxidants
Antioxidant Activity of a Geopropolis from Northeast Brazil: Chemical Characterization and Likely Botanical Origin
Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2017;2017:4024721
Geopropolis is a product containing wax, plant resin, and soil particles. It is elaborated by stingless bees of tribe Meliponini. Methanol extracts of sample of geopropolis produced by Scaptotrigona postica ("mandaguari") in the state of Rio Grande do Norte (RN, northeast Brazil) were analyzed for the determination of standard parameters (total phenols, total flavonoids, and radical scavenging activity) and chemical characterization by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS analysis.
The sample analyzed has high contents of total phenols and flavonoids, as well as high antioxidant activity. The constituents characterized were mainly flavonols, such as quercetin methyl ethers, and methoxychalcones. Such chemical profile is similar to the composition of a green propolis from the same area of RN, which is produced by Africanized Apis mellifera, using shoot apices of Mimosa tenuiflora, popularly known as "jurema-preta."
This finding provides evidence that "mandaguari" geopropolis and honeybee propolis have the same botanical origin in RN. The sharing of a plant resin source by phylogenetically distant bees (Apinae and Meliponinae) suggests that bee genetic factors play little role in the choice of plants for resin collection and that the availability of potential botanical sources plays a decisive role.
Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2017;2017:4024721
Geopropolis is a product containing wax, plant resin, and soil particles. It is elaborated by stingless bees of tribe Meliponini. Methanol extracts of sample of geopropolis produced by Scaptotrigona postica ("mandaguari") in the state of Rio Grande do Norte (RN, northeast Brazil) were analyzed for the determination of standard parameters (total phenols, total flavonoids, and radical scavenging activity) and chemical characterization by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS analysis.
The sample analyzed has high contents of total phenols and flavonoids, as well as high antioxidant activity. The constituents characterized were mainly flavonols, such as quercetin methyl ethers, and methoxychalcones. Such chemical profile is similar to the composition of a green propolis from the same area of RN, which is produced by Africanized Apis mellifera, using shoot apices of Mimosa tenuiflora, popularly known as "jurema-preta."
This finding provides evidence that "mandaguari" geopropolis and honeybee propolis have the same botanical origin in RN. The sharing of a plant resin source by phylogenetically distant bees (Apinae and Meliponinae) suggests that bee genetic factors play little role in the choice of plants for resin collection and that the availability of potential botanical sources plays a decisive role.
Saturday, December 16, 2017
Manuka honey can be used as an alternate therapeutic approach for management of New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-producing pathogens
In vitro and in vivo activity of Manuka honey against NDM-1-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae ST11
Future Microbiol. 2018 Jan;13:13-26
AIM:
To determine the therapeutic potential of Manuka honey against New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-1-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae ST11 in vitro and in vivo.
MATERIALS & METHODS:
Carbapenamases and metallo-β-lactamases-producing K. pneumoniae ST11 isolated from blood culture was confirmed by VITEK-2® system, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight and multilocus sequence typing, followed by determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (μg/ml) using VITEK-2 system. Genetic analysis of bla NDM-1 was done by PCR, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and DNA hybridization. In vitro and in vivo efficacy of Manuka honey was performed by microbroth dilution assay and BALB/c mice model respectively.
RESULTS:
K. pneumoniae ST11 displayed resistance to commonly used antibiotics. bla NDM-1 was located on 150 and 270kb plasmids. Minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of Manuka honey was 30% (v/v) and substantial reduction of bacterial mean log value (>1 log) was observed in mice. Histological analysis of mice liver and kidneys demonstrated mild to moderate inflammation.
CONCLUSION:
Manuka honey can be used as an alternate therapeutic approach for management of New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-producing pathogens.
Future Microbiol. 2018 Jan;13:13-26
AIM:
To determine the therapeutic potential of Manuka honey against New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-1-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae ST11 in vitro and in vivo.
MATERIALS & METHODS:
Carbapenamases and metallo-β-lactamases-producing K. pneumoniae ST11 isolated from blood culture was confirmed by VITEK-2® system, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight and multilocus sequence typing, followed by determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (μg/ml) using VITEK-2 system. Genetic analysis of bla NDM-1 was done by PCR, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and DNA hybridization. In vitro and in vivo efficacy of Manuka honey was performed by microbroth dilution assay and BALB/c mice model respectively.
RESULTS:
K. pneumoniae ST11 displayed resistance to commonly used antibiotics. bla NDM-1 was located on 150 and 270kb plasmids. Minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of Manuka honey was 30% (v/v) and substantial reduction of bacterial mean log value (>1 log) was observed in mice. Histological analysis of mice liver and kidneys demonstrated mild to moderate inflammation.
CONCLUSION:
Manuka honey can be used as an alternate therapeutic approach for management of New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-producing pathogens.
Friday, December 15, 2017
Bee Venom Used to Treat Arthritis
Bee venom used to treat arthritis in Norwich woman
NORWICH, Kan. (KAKE) - A Norwich, Kansas woman has a unique approach to treating her arthritis by using bee venom as a medication.
Sharon Rowan says she suffers from debilitating arthritis in her hands and one day, she had enough and knew she needed a new treatment.
“It was enough that the joints would just throb. It hurt to write, it hurt to do anything,” Rowan said. “That is when it’s time to think about it, its time to minimize this pain.”
She had friends that used bee venom as a treatment for arthritis and she gave it a try. Rowan has been an avid beekeeper for the past 50 years.
“I put a bee down there on it and it worked, because it quit hurting,” Rowan said of her hand pain from arthritis. “I talked to my doctor about it and he said it works as good as my shot will so go for it.”
Thursday, December 14, 2017
'Manuka honey can be used as an alternate therapeutic approach for management of New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-producing pathogens'
In vitro and in vivo activity of Manuka honey against NDM-1-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae ST11
Future Microbiol. 2017 Dec 11
AIM:
To determine the therapeutic potential of Manuka honey against New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-1-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae ST11 in vitro and in vivo.
MATERIALS & METHODS:
Carbapenamases and metallo-β-lactamases-producing K. pneumoniae ST11 isolated from blood culture was confirmed by VITEK-2® system, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight and multilocus sequence typing, followed by determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (μg/ml) using VITEK-2 system. Genetic analysis of bla NDM-1 was done by PCR, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and DNA hybridization. In vitro and in vivo efficacy of Manuka honey was performed by microbroth dilution assay and BALB/c mice model respectively.
RESULTS:
K. pneumoniae ST11 displayed resistance to commonly used antibiotics. bla NDM-1 was located on 150 and 270kb plasmids. Minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of Manuka honey was 30% (v/v) and substantial reduction of bacterial mean log value (>1 log) was observed in mice. Histological analysis of mice liver and kidneys demonstrated mild to moderate inflammation.
CONCLUSION:
Manuka honey can be used as an alternate therapeutic approach for management of New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-producing pathogens.
Future Microbiol. 2017 Dec 11
AIM:
To determine the therapeutic potential of Manuka honey against New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-1-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae ST11 in vitro and in vivo.
MATERIALS & METHODS:
Carbapenamases and metallo-β-lactamases-producing K. pneumoniae ST11 isolated from blood culture was confirmed by VITEK-2® system, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight and multilocus sequence typing, followed by determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (μg/ml) using VITEK-2 system. Genetic analysis of bla NDM-1 was done by PCR, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and DNA hybridization. In vitro and in vivo efficacy of Manuka honey was performed by microbroth dilution assay and BALB/c mice model respectively.
RESULTS:
K. pneumoniae ST11 displayed resistance to commonly used antibiotics. bla NDM-1 was located on 150 and 270kb plasmids. Minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of Manuka honey was 30% (v/v) and substantial reduction of bacterial mean log value (>1 log) was observed in mice. Histological analysis of mice liver and kidneys demonstrated mild to moderate inflammation.
CONCLUSION:
Manuka honey can be used as an alternate therapeutic approach for management of New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-producing pathogens.
Wednesday, December 13, 2017
New Zealand Trademarks Manuka Honey
NZ trademarks mānuka honey and officials create new definition
Many New Zealand beekeepers are celebrating the sweet taste of a landmark decision by United Kingdom authorities to accept the term mānuka honey for trade marking.
The decision reached overnight by the United Kingdom Trade Mark Registry recognising mānuka honey as a certification mark means the New Zealand beekeeping industry can seek further protection of the term.
At the same time Agriculture Minister Damien O'Connor announced the Ministry for Primary Industries had produced a definition for mānuka honey.
He said the decision would not please all producers, but would safeguard the industry from cowboy operators and protect New Zealand's trade reputation.
"The scale of the problem was never truly identified but what we know is there was more manuka honey sold than was being produced, so obviously some cowboy operators were mixing honey. That's not good for our reputation or for customers," O'Connor said...
Tuesday, December 12, 2017
Cytotoxic Effect of Biologically-Transformed Propolis
Biologically Transformed Propolis Exhibits Cytotoxic Effect on A375 Malignant Melanoma Cells In Vitro
Proceedings 2017, 1(10), 1059
Propolis has been used for its health benefits, due to high phenolic content. Recently it has been shown that the extraction methods which yielded phenolic molecules, affected the anti-oxidant and anticancer effect of propolis.
In our previous study we showed that biotransformation of propolis via Lactobacillus plantarum might increase antioxidative effect. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic effect of this propolis sample on A375 melanoma cells. The propolis samples were extracted in water. The phenolic molecules were determined with LC MS/MS. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by means of the WST.
Water-extracted propolis samples were incubated with L. plantarum (1.5%) in 37 °C for 24 h. A375 cells were treated by propolis with doses of from 25 to 1000 µg/mL, for periods of 24 h, 48 h and 72 h. Cytotoxicity MTT tests were performed. The significantly high phenolic compounds mainly; Quercetine (514 ng/mL), rutin (623 ng/mL), ellagic acid (331 ng/mL), epicatechin (125 ng/mL) were found in propolis samples IC50 values were 412.5 µg/mL (24 h) and 314 µg/mL (48 h) and 353 µg/mL (72 h).
In conclusion, our data showed that the cytotoxic effect of biologically transformed propolis which have high content of rutin, quercetin, ellagic acid, epicatechin. Biotransformation might be a useful strategy to increase bioavailability of phenolic molecules in propolis.
Proceedings 2017, 1(10), 1059
Propolis has been used for its health benefits, due to high phenolic content. Recently it has been shown that the extraction methods which yielded phenolic molecules, affected the anti-oxidant and anticancer effect of propolis.
In our previous study we showed that biotransformation of propolis via Lactobacillus plantarum might increase antioxidative effect. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic effect of this propolis sample on A375 melanoma cells. The propolis samples were extracted in water. The phenolic molecules were determined with LC MS/MS. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by means of the WST.
Water-extracted propolis samples were incubated with L. plantarum (1.5%) in 37 °C for 24 h. A375 cells were treated by propolis with doses of from 25 to 1000 µg/mL, for periods of 24 h, 48 h and 72 h. Cytotoxicity MTT tests were performed. The significantly high phenolic compounds mainly; Quercetine (514 ng/mL), rutin (623 ng/mL), ellagic acid (331 ng/mL), epicatechin (125 ng/mL) were found in propolis samples IC50 values were 412.5 µg/mL (24 h) and 314 µg/mL (48 h) and 353 µg/mL (72 h).
In conclusion, our data showed that the cytotoxic effect of biologically transformed propolis which have high content of rutin, quercetin, ellagic acid, epicatechin. Biotransformation might be a useful strategy to increase bioavailability of phenolic molecules in propolis.
Monday, December 11, 2017
Royal Jelly May May Be a Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease, Colitis, Crohn’s Disease, Menopausal Symptoms, Diabetes, Osteoporosis
10 Health Benefits of Royal Jelly and Why It May Be A Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease
By Kaitlin Covel Dec 9 2017
Royal Jelly is not the magic pill cure-all of the natural world, but the incredible health benefits do give it an almost miraculous reputation considering that scientific studies testify to its potential to positively treat a variety of illnesses and symptoms including that of Alzheimer’s Disease.
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What is royal jelly you ask? Royal jelly is the substance milked from the jaws of nurse bees in the hive exclusively for the queen bee. Royal jelly contains significant amounts of protein that are important for cell growth and reproduction as well as carbohydrates, fats, free amino acids, vitamins and minerals. It is interesting to note that royal jelly is rich in B vitamins, the 8 amino acids humans cannot produce, and potassium, magnesium, calcium, copper, sulfur, zinc, iron and manganese as well. No wonder royal jelly is considered a wellspring of nutrients. Here are the top 10 health benefits of royal jelly:
1. Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment
Research conducted recently demonstrated that royal jelly benefits neural function which indicates that it may improve short-term memory for patients with Alzheimer’s disease. The study was published in Advanced Biomedical Research. The powerful antioxidants in Royal Jelly make it an effective and natural treatment for fighting free radical attacks and oxidative stress which occur in many neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease.
2. Immune System Modulator
According to research published in a 2001 study in the journal International Immunopharmacology, royal jelly can boost the functions of the immune system. Histamine responses to allergens were suppressed immediately, evidencing that it may help to relieve allergies of a seasonal nature. Hopefully more research will be completed to validate royal jelly’s usefulness in treating allergies.
3. Colitis, Crohn’s Disease, and IBS Treatment
A European study found that royal jelly protected the mucosa of the colon by limiting the negative effects of the acidic substance that was given to the rats with colitis. Another finding in the study was that royal jelly protected against erosion of the cells in the colon. To replicate the results of this study in humans, the researchers concluded that a 140 pound person would need to take approximately 10 grams of royal jelly per day. In order to get this amount, a freeze-dried dose of royal jelly would be about 2 teaspoons and a fresh dose would be about 2 tablespoons....
Sunday, December 10, 2017
Hydrophilic Bioactive Components of Greek Royal Jelly
Targeted profiling of hydrophilic constituents of royal jelly by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry
J Chromatogr A. 2017 Nov 13. pii: S0021-9673(17)31667-9
In the present work a Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography-tandem Mass Spectrometry (HILIC-MS/MS) method was developed for the efficient separation and quantification of a large number of small polar bioactive molecules in Royal Jelly.
The method was validated and provided satisfactory detection sensitivity for 88 components. Quantification was proven to be precise for 64 components exhibiting good linearity, recoveries R% > 90% for the majority of analytes and intra- and inter-day precision from 0.14 to 20% RSD.
Analysis of 125 fresh royal jelly samples of Greek origin provided useful information on royal jelly's components revealing lysine, ribose, proline, melezitose and glutamic acid to be in high abundance. In addition the occurrence of 18 hydrophilic nutrients which have not been reported previously as royal jelly constituents is shown.
J Chromatogr A. 2017 Nov 13. pii: S0021-9673(17)31667-9
In the present work a Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography-tandem Mass Spectrometry (HILIC-MS/MS) method was developed for the efficient separation and quantification of a large number of small polar bioactive molecules in Royal Jelly.
The method was validated and provided satisfactory detection sensitivity for 88 components. Quantification was proven to be precise for 64 components exhibiting good linearity, recoveries R% > 90% for the majority of analytes and intra- and inter-day precision from 0.14 to 20% RSD.
Analysis of 125 fresh royal jelly samples of Greek origin provided useful information on royal jelly's components revealing lysine, ribose, proline, melezitose and glutamic acid to be in high abundance. In addition the occurrence of 18 hydrophilic nutrients which have not been reported previously as royal jelly constituents is shown.
Saturday, December 09, 2017
Indian Propolis Shows Anti-Cancer Effect
Standardization, chemical profiling, in vitro cytotoxic effects, in vivo anti-carcinogenic potential and biosafety profile of Indian propolis
J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2017 Dec 4. pii: S0975-9476(17)30185-7
BACKGROUND:
Propolis from apiculture is known for wide range of medicinal properties owing to its vast chemical constituents including polyphenols, flavonoids and anticancer agent Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE).
OBJECTIVES:
The objective of the study was to extract and standardize Indian propolis (IP) with respect to selected markers by newly developed High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method, to evaluate in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity and biosafety of Indian propolis.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
IP was extracted, optimized and standardized using a newly developed and validated HPLC method for simultaneous estimation of caffeic acid, apigenin, quercetin and CAPE. The standardised ethanolic extract of IP (EEIP) was screened for in vitro cytotoxicity using sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay, in vivo anti-carcinogenic effect against Dalton's Lymphoma ascites (DLA) cells, hemolytic effect and pesticide analysis.
RESULTS:
The EEIP was found to contain more amount of total flavonoids (23.61+ 0.0452 mg equivalent of quercetin/g), total polyphenolics (34.82 + 0.0785 mg equivalent of gallic acid/g) and all selected markers except caffeic acid compared to all other extracts. EEIP showed better anti-cancer potential than CAPE on MCF-7 and HT-29 cell line and significant (p < 0.01) in vivo anti-carcinogenic effects against DLA in comparison with 5-fluorouracil. EEIP was found to be non-hemolytic.
CONCLUSION:
From in vitro cytotoxicity, in vivo anti-carcinogenicity and biosafety studies it can be concluded that the standardized EEIP is safe and can be considered for further development as a biomedicine.
J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2017 Dec 4. pii: S0975-9476(17)30185-7
BACKGROUND:
Propolis from apiculture is known for wide range of medicinal properties owing to its vast chemical constituents including polyphenols, flavonoids and anticancer agent Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE).
OBJECTIVES:
The objective of the study was to extract and standardize Indian propolis (IP) with respect to selected markers by newly developed High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method, to evaluate in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity and biosafety of Indian propolis.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
IP was extracted, optimized and standardized using a newly developed and validated HPLC method for simultaneous estimation of caffeic acid, apigenin, quercetin and CAPE. The standardised ethanolic extract of IP (EEIP) was screened for in vitro cytotoxicity using sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay, in vivo anti-carcinogenic effect against Dalton's Lymphoma ascites (DLA) cells, hemolytic effect and pesticide analysis.
RESULTS:
The EEIP was found to contain more amount of total flavonoids (23.61+ 0.0452 mg equivalent of quercetin/g), total polyphenolics (34.82 + 0.0785 mg equivalent of gallic acid/g) and all selected markers except caffeic acid compared to all other extracts. EEIP showed better anti-cancer potential than CAPE on MCF-7 and HT-29 cell line and significant (p < 0.01) in vivo anti-carcinogenic effects against DLA in comparison with 5-fluorouracil. EEIP was found to be non-hemolytic.
CONCLUSION:
From in vitro cytotoxicity, in vivo anti-carcinogenicity and biosafety studies it can be concluded that the standardized EEIP is safe and can be considered for further development as a biomedicine.
Friday, December 08, 2017
Manuka Honey Helps Treat Severe Atopic Eczematous Dermatitis
Manuka Honey: A Case Study of Severe Atopic Eczematous Dermatitis Reaction to Henna Tattoo
Plast Surg Nurs. 2017 Oct/Dec;37(4):154-157
Many mainstream medications were derived from plants and originally utilized in patient management well prior to the extensive research and testing processes of current pharmaceutical standards. The evolution of therapeutic management within the pharmaceutical and skin care industry often uses synthetic processing of products with less of a focus on the natural ingredients from which they were originally derived.
However, more recently there has been a shift in pharmacological management to include the therapeutic use of more holistic medicines and practices and thus a broadening of the uses of nontraditional medical treatment options. This has been seen in the use of treatments, such as Manuka honey, for skin conditions and dermal injuries. It is often with off-label uses, or conditions resistant to other treatments, that then prompt the use of holistic products and the true value of the product is validated.
As with the following case study, the example of the use of Manuka honey on a severe atopic contact dermatitis eczematous reaction provides further documentation and supportive evidence of the potential efficacy of the properties of this particular natural product.
Plast Surg Nurs. 2017 Oct/Dec;37(4):154-157
Many mainstream medications were derived from plants and originally utilized in patient management well prior to the extensive research and testing processes of current pharmaceutical standards. The evolution of therapeutic management within the pharmaceutical and skin care industry often uses synthetic processing of products with less of a focus on the natural ingredients from which they were originally derived.
However, more recently there has been a shift in pharmacological management to include the therapeutic use of more holistic medicines and practices and thus a broadening of the uses of nontraditional medical treatment options. This has been seen in the use of treatments, such as Manuka honey, for skin conditions and dermal injuries. It is often with off-label uses, or conditions resistant to other treatments, that then prompt the use of holistic products and the true value of the product is validated.
As with the following case study, the example of the use of Manuka honey on a severe atopic contact dermatitis eczematous reaction provides further documentation and supportive evidence of the potential efficacy of the properties of this particular natural product.
Thursday, December 07, 2017
Propolis Component Useful in Treatment of Acute Lung Injury
Discovery of caffeic acid phenethyl ester derivatives as novel myeloid differentiation protein 2 inhibitors for treatment of acute lung injury
Eur J Med Chem. 2017 Dec 1;143:361-375
Myeloid differentiation protein 2 (MD2) is an essential molecule which recognizes lipopolysaccharide (LPS), leading to initiation of inflammation through the activation of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) from propolis of honeybee hives could interfere interactions between LPS and the TLR4/MD2 complex, and thereby has promising anti-inflammatory properties.
In this study, we designed and synthesized 48 CAPE derivatives and evaluated their anti-inflammatory activities in mouse primary peritoneal macrophages (MPMs) activated by LPS. The most active compound, 10s, was found to bind with MD2 with high affinity, which prevented formation of the LPS/MD2/TLR4 complex. The binding mode of 10s revealed that the major interactions with MD2 were established via two key hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. Furthermore, 10s showed remarkable protective effects against LPS-caused ALI (acute lung injury) in vivo.
Taken together, this work provides new lead structures and candidates as MD2 inhibitors for the development of anti-inflammatory drugs.
Eur J Med Chem. 2017 Dec 1;143:361-375
Myeloid differentiation protein 2 (MD2) is an essential molecule which recognizes lipopolysaccharide (LPS), leading to initiation of inflammation through the activation of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) from propolis of honeybee hives could interfere interactions between LPS and the TLR4/MD2 complex, and thereby has promising anti-inflammatory properties.
In this study, we designed and synthesized 48 CAPE derivatives and evaluated their anti-inflammatory activities in mouse primary peritoneal macrophages (MPMs) activated by LPS. The most active compound, 10s, was found to bind with MD2 with high affinity, which prevented formation of the LPS/MD2/TLR4 complex. The binding mode of 10s revealed that the major interactions with MD2 were established via two key hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. Furthermore, 10s showed remarkable protective effects against LPS-caused ALI (acute lung injury) in vivo.
Taken together, this work provides new lead structures and candidates as MD2 inhibitors for the development of anti-inflammatory drugs.
Wednesday, December 06, 2017
Honey Effective as Treatment for Chemotherapy-Induced Mucositis in Paediatric Oncology Patients
Global Health Journal Club: Is Honey Effective as a Treatment for Chemotherapy-induced Mucositis in Paediatric Oncology Patients?
J Trop Pediatr. 2017 Nov 30
Oral mucositis (OM) is an inflammatory response of mucosal epithelium to the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy causing severe oral pain and ulceration, which may complicate the management of cancer. The Mucositis Prevention Guideline Development Group has developed an international guideline for the prevention of mucositis in children receiving treatment for cancer or undergoing haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Evidence-based preventative strategies include cryotherapy, low-level light therapy and keratinocyte growth factor. However, these strategies are often not available in resource-poor settings. There is some evidence that honey may be a suitable treatment for OM in adult patients. We performed a literature search of 11 databases to find papers exploring the use of honey to treat chemotherapy-associated mucositis in paediatric oncology patients.
We found four papers, which provide Grade C evidence that honey is effective as a preventative and therapeutic measure for OM in paediatric oncology patients.
J Trop Pediatr. 2017 Nov 30
Oral mucositis (OM) is an inflammatory response of mucosal epithelium to the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy causing severe oral pain and ulceration, which may complicate the management of cancer. The Mucositis Prevention Guideline Development Group has developed an international guideline for the prevention of mucositis in children receiving treatment for cancer or undergoing haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Evidence-based preventative strategies include cryotherapy, low-level light therapy and keratinocyte growth factor. However, these strategies are often not available in resource-poor settings. There is some evidence that honey may be a suitable treatment for OM in adult patients. We performed a literature search of 11 databases to find papers exploring the use of honey to treat chemotherapy-associated mucositis in paediatric oncology patients.
We found four papers, which provide Grade C evidence that honey is effective as a preventative and therapeutic measure for OM in paediatric oncology patients.
Monday, December 04, 2017
Give Children Honey and Lemon, Not Cough Medicine Says Top Doc
By Henry Bodkin, 1 December 2017
Children should not be given cough medicine but should instead be treated with “old fashioned” honey and lemon, a leading paediatrician has said.
Using over-the-counter syrups and medications risk unintentionally overdosing toddlers and causing “toxic” events, according to Dr Oliver Bevington, from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.
Chair of the college’s trainees’ committee, Dr Bovington said there was no evidence cough medicines work and added they can end “actually end up doing more harm than good”.
Most childhood coughs and colds get better simply with rest, fluids and possibly paracetamol or ibuprofen, he said.
The intervention follows an announcement by the NHS earlier this year saying it would no longer fund free cough mixture.
“A lot of cough and cold medicines contain active ingredients such as nasal decongestants, antihistamines and cough suppressors that may, in large doses, have adverse effects or be toxic if consumed in large quantities, particularly to the under-sixes who are much more susceptible,” he said.
“The bottom line is there is absolutely no evidence that cough medicines work as there has been very little research with regards to their use and, potentially, they could actually do children more harm than good.
“My advice for parents would be to stick to old fashioned honey and lemon.”...
Children should not be given cough medicine but should instead be treated with “old fashioned” honey and lemon, a leading paediatrician has said.
Using over-the-counter syrups and medications risk unintentionally overdosing toddlers and causing “toxic” events, according to Dr Oliver Bevington, from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.
Chair of the college’s trainees’ committee, Dr Bovington said there was no evidence cough medicines work and added they can end “actually end up doing more harm than good”.
Most childhood coughs and colds get better simply with rest, fluids and possibly paracetamol or ibuprofen, he said.
The intervention follows an announcement by the NHS earlier this year saying it would no longer fund free cough mixture.
“A lot of cough and cold medicines contain active ingredients such as nasal decongestants, antihistamines and cough suppressors that may, in large doses, have adverse effects or be toxic if consumed in large quantities, particularly to the under-sixes who are much more susceptible,” he said.
“The bottom line is there is absolutely no evidence that cough medicines work as there has been very little research with regards to their use and, potentially, they could actually do children more harm than good.
“My advice for parents would be to stick to old fashioned honey and lemon.”...
Sunday, December 03, 2017
Bee Venom Component Inhibits Tumor Growth
The anti-hepatocellular carcinoma activity of Mel-P15 is mediated by natural killer cells
Oncol Lett. 2017 Dec;14(6):6901-6906
Mel-P15 is a peptide derived from melittin, the main toxic component in the venom of the European honeybee Apis mellifera.
In the present study, the antitumor effects of Mel-P15 and the underlying molecular mechanisms of these effects in vivo were investigated. Mel-P15 directly stimulated natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity in vitro, which was increased to 55.45% at a 4 µg/ml dose of Mel-P15. In the mouse liver cancer (H22) xenograft mice model, Mel-P15 suppressed tumor growth in vivo; the tumor inhibitory rate was 61.15% following treatment with 2 mg/kg Mel-P15. In addition, the immune response was activated following Mel-P15 treatment. Mel-P15 treatment increased the spleen and thymus indices, promoted splenocyte proliferation, stimulated NK cytotoxicity and upregulated the secretion of cytokines, including interleukin-2, interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α. In addition, the tumor inhibitory effect of Mel-P15 on BEL-7402-bearing nude mice was abrogated by the selective depletion of NK cells via the intraperitoneal injection of an anti-asialo GM-1 antibody.
The results suggest that Mel-P15 inhibits tumor growth in vivo by promoting NK cell cytotoxicity. Mel-P15 may therefore be a potential immunotherapy candidate for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Oncol Lett. 2017 Dec;14(6):6901-6906
Mel-P15 is a peptide derived from melittin, the main toxic component in the venom of the European honeybee Apis mellifera.
In the present study, the antitumor effects of Mel-P15 and the underlying molecular mechanisms of these effects in vivo were investigated. Mel-P15 directly stimulated natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity in vitro, which was increased to 55.45% at a 4 µg/ml dose of Mel-P15. In the mouse liver cancer (H22) xenograft mice model, Mel-P15 suppressed tumor growth in vivo; the tumor inhibitory rate was 61.15% following treatment with 2 mg/kg Mel-P15. In addition, the immune response was activated following Mel-P15 treatment. Mel-P15 treatment increased the spleen and thymus indices, promoted splenocyte proliferation, stimulated NK cytotoxicity and upregulated the secretion of cytokines, including interleukin-2, interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α. In addition, the tumor inhibitory effect of Mel-P15 on BEL-7402-bearing nude mice was abrogated by the selective depletion of NK cells via the intraperitoneal injection of an anti-asialo GM-1 antibody.
The results suggest that Mel-P15 inhibits tumor growth in vivo by promoting NK cell cytotoxicity. Mel-P15 may therefore be a potential immunotherapy candidate for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Saturday, December 02, 2017
Bee Bread Shows Antioxidant Activity and Protective Effect
Antioxidant activity and protective effect of bee bread (honey and pollen) in aluminum-induced anemia, elevation of inflammatory makers and hepato-renal toxicity
J Food Sci Technol. 2017 Dec;54(13):4205-4212
Aluminum toxicity might be related to oxidative stress, and the antioxidant activity and protective effect of bee bread, which contains pollen, honey and bees' enzymes, on aluminum induced blood and hepato-renal toxicity was investigated in rats.
Chemical analysis and antioxidant capacity of bee bread were conducted. The animal experiment in rats included; group 1: received distilled water (10 ml/kg b.wt), group 2: received aluminum chloride (662.2 mg/kg b.wt), group 3: received aluminum chloride (662.2 mg/kg b.wt) and ethanolic extract of the bee bread (500 mg/kg b.wt), and group 4: received aluminum chloride (662.2 mg/kg b.wt) and ethanolic extract of the bee bread (750 mg/kg b.wt). Doses were given once daily via a gavage. C-reactive protein, transaminases, urea, creatinine, creatinine clearance, sodium and potassium and urine sodium and potassium were determined on day 28 of the experiment.
Bee bread contained protein, fat, fiber, ash, carbohydrate, phenol and flavonoids and it exhibited antioxidant activity. Aluminum caused a significant elevation of blood urea, transaminase, C-reactive protein and monocyte count and significantly decreased hemoglobin. These changes were significantly ameliorated by the use of bee bread.
Bee bread has an antioxidant property, and exhibited a protective effect on aluminum induced blood and hepato-renal toxicity and elevation of inflammatory markers C-reactive protein, leukocyte and monocyte counts.
J Food Sci Technol. 2017 Dec;54(13):4205-4212
Aluminum toxicity might be related to oxidative stress, and the antioxidant activity and protective effect of bee bread, which contains pollen, honey and bees' enzymes, on aluminum induced blood and hepato-renal toxicity was investigated in rats.
Chemical analysis and antioxidant capacity of bee bread were conducted. The animal experiment in rats included; group 1: received distilled water (10 ml/kg b.wt), group 2: received aluminum chloride (662.2 mg/kg b.wt), group 3: received aluminum chloride (662.2 mg/kg b.wt) and ethanolic extract of the bee bread (500 mg/kg b.wt), and group 4: received aluminum chloride (662.2 mg/kg b.wt) and ethanolic extract of the bee bread (750 mg/kg b.wt). Doses were given once daily via a gavage. C-reactive protein, transaminases, urea, creatinine, creatinine clearance, sodium and potassium and urine sodium and potassium were determined on day 28 of the experiment.
Bee bread contained protein, fat, fiber, ash, carbohydrate, phenol and flavonoids and it exhibited antioxidant activity. Aluminum caused a significant elevation of blood urea, transaminase, C-reactive protein and monocyte count and significantly decreased hemoglobin. These changes were significantly ameliorated by the use of bee bread.
Bee bread has an antioxidant property, and exhibited a protective effect on aluminum induced blood and hepato-renal toxicity and elevation of inflammatory markers C-reactive protein, leukocyte and monocyte counts.
Friday, December 01, 2017
Honey Has Significant Diuretic Activity Alone or in Combination with Propolis
Antioxidant and diuretic activity of co-administration of Capparis spinosa honey and propolis in comparison to furosemide
Asian Pac J Trop Med. 2017 Oct;10(10):974-980
OBJECTIVE:
To study the antioxidant properties of Capparis spinosa (C. spinosa) honey and propolis and the effect of combined honey and propolis administration on urine volume and electrolytes in rats.
METHODS:
C. spinosa honey [1000 mg/kg body weight (b.wt)], propolis (100 mg/kg b.wt), honey/propolis mixture (C. spinosa honey 1000 mg/kg b.wt/ propolis extract 100 mg/kg b.wt ), distilled water (1 mL/kg b.wt) and furosemide (10 mg/kg b.wt) were orally administered to five groups of rats for 21 d. Urine volume, blood and urine sodium, potassium and chloride were measured. The antioxidant activity of propolis and honey was assessed and their total phenols and flavonoids were determined.
RESULTS:
Propolis and C. spinosa honey contain polyphenols including flavonoids and propolis demonstrated higher antioxidant activities than honey. Honey significantly increased urine volume and urine electrolyte excretion. Propolis had no significant effect on urine volume, but co-administration of propolis and honey caused significant diuresis. No major changes were observed in plasma electrolytes with the use of honey, propolis or their combination.
CONCLUSIONS:
Honey and propolis have antioxidant activity and contain polyphenols including flavonoids that are more pronounced in propolis. Honey has a significant diuretic activity alone or in combination with propolis. This is the first study comparing the diuretic effect of co-administration of propolis and C. spinosa honey with furosemide.
Asian Pac J Trop Med. 2017 Oct;10(10):974-980
OBJECTIVE:
To study the antioxidant properties of Capparis spinosa (C. spinosa) honey and propolis and the effect of combined honey and propolis administration on urine volume and electrolytes in rats.
METHODS:
C. spinosa honey [1000 mg/kg body weight (b.wt)], propolis (100 mg/kg b.wt), honey/propolis mixture (C. spinosa honey 1000 mg/kg b.wt/ propolis extract 100 mg/kg b.wt ), distilled water (1 mL/kg b.wt) and furosemide (10 mg/kg b.wt) were orally administered to five groups of rats for 21 d. Urine volume, blood and urine sodium, potassium and chloride were measured. The antioxidant activity of propolis and honey was assessed and their total phenols and flavonoids were determined.
RESULTS:
Propolis and C. spinosa honey contain polyphenols including flavonoids and propolis demonstrated higher antioxidant activities than honey. Honey significantly increased urine volume and urine electrolyte excretion. Propolis had no significant effect on urine volume, but co-administration of propolis and honey caused significant diuresis. No major changes were observed in plasma electrolytes with the use of honey, propolis or their combination.
CONCLUSIONS:
Honey and propolis have antioxidant activity and contain polyphenols including flavonoids that are more pronounced in propolis. Honey has a significant diuretic activity alone or in combination with propolis. This is the first study comparing the diuretic effect of co-administration of propolis and C. spinosa honey with furosemide.