Chemical Composition and Neuroprotective Properties of Indonesian Stingless Bee (Geniotrigona thoracica) Propolis Extract in an In-Vivo Model of Intracerebral Hemorrhage (ICH).

Stroke is the world's second-leading cause of death. Current treatments for cerebral edema following intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) mainly involve hyperosmolar fluids, but this approach is often inadequate. Propolis, known for its various beneficial properties, especially antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, could potentially act as an adjunctive therapy and help alleviate stroke-associated injuries. The chemical composition of Geniotrigona thoracica propolis extract was analyzed by GC-MS after derivatization for its total phenolic and total flavonoid content. The total phenolic content and total flavonoid content of the propolis extract were 1037.31 ± 24.10 µg GAE/mL and 374.02 ± 3.36 µg QE/mL, respectively. By GC-MS analysis, its major constituents were found to be triterpenoids (22.4% of TIC). Minor compounds, such as phenolic lipids (6.7% of TIC, GC-MS) and diterpenic acids (2.3% of TIC, GC-MS), were also found. Ninety-six Sprague Dawley rats were divided into six groups; namely, the control group, the ICH group, and four ICH groups that received the following therapies: mannitol, propolis extract (daily oral propolis administration after the ICH induction), propolis-M (propolis and mannitol), and propolis-B+A (daily oral propolis administration 7 days prior to and 72 h after the ICH induction). Neurocognitive functions of the rats were analyzed using the rotarod challenge and Morris water maze. In addition, the expression of NF-κB, SUR1-TRPM4, MMP-9, and Aquaporin-4 was analyzed using immunohistochemical methods. A TUNEL assay was used to assess the percentage of apoptotic cells. Mannitol significantly improved cognitive-motor functions in the ICH group, evidenced by improved rotarod and Morris water maze completion times, and lowered SUR-1 and Aquaporin-4 levels. It also significantly decreased cerebral edema by day 3. Similarly, propolis treatments (propolis-A and propolis-B+A) showed comparable improvements in these tests and reduced edema. Moreover, combining propolis with mannitol (propolis-M) further enhanced these effects, particularly in reducing edema and the Virchow-Robin space. These findings highlight the potential of propolis from the Indonesian stingless bee, Geniotrigona thoracica, from the Central Tapanuli region as a neuroprotective, adjunctive therapy.

Understanding the Roles of Selenium on Thyroid Hormone-Induced Thermogenesis in Adipose Tissue.

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) and white adipose tissue (WAT) are known to regulate lipid metabolism. A lower amount of BAT compared to WAT, along with adipose tissue dysfunction, can result in obesity. Studies have shown that selenium supplementation protects against adipocyte dysfunction, decreases WAT triglycerides, and increases BAT triiodothyronine (T3). In this review, we discuss the relationship between selenium and lipid metabolism regulation through selenoprotein deiodinases and the role of deiodinases and thyroid hormones in the induction of adipose tissue thermogenesis. Upon 22 studies included in our review, we found that studies investigating the relationship between selenium and deiodinases demonstrated that selenium supplementation affects the iodothyronine deiodinase 2 (DIO2) protein and the expression of its associated gene, DIO2, proportionally. However, its effect on DIO1 is inconsistent while its effect on DIO3 activity is not detected. Studies have shown that the activity of deiodinases especially DIO2 protein and DIO2 gene expression is increased along with other browning markers upon white adipose tissue browning induction. Studies showed that thermogenesis is stimulated by the thyroid hormone T3 as its activity is correlated to the expression of other thermogenesis markers. A proposed mechanism of thermogenesis induction in selenium supplementation is by autophagy control. However, more studies are needed to establish the role of T3 and autophagy in adipose tissue thermogenesis, especially, since some studies have shown that thermogenesis can function even when T3 activity is lacking and studies related to autophagy in adipose tissue thermogenesis have contradictory results.

Propolis-Based Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for α-Mangostin Delivery: Formulation, Characterization, and In Vitro Antioxidant Activity Evaluation.

α-Mangostin (a xanthone derivative found in the pericarp of Garcinia mangostana L.) and propolis extract (which is rich in flavonoids and phenols) are known for their antioxidant properties, making them potential supplements for the treatment of oxidative stress-related conditions. However, these two potential substances have the same primary drawback, which is low solubility in water. The low water solubility of α-mangostin and propolis can be overcome by utilizing nanotechnology approaches. In this study, a propolis-based nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) system was formulated to enhance the delivery of α-mangostin. The aim of this study was to characterize the formulation and investigate its influence on the antioxidant activity of α-mangostin. The results showed that both unloaded propolis-based NLC (NLC-P) and α-mangostin-loaded propolis-based NLC (NLC-P-α-M) had nanoscale particle sizes (72.7 ± 1.082 nm and 80.3 ± 1.015 nm, respectively), neutral surface zeta potential (ranging between +10 mV and -10 mV), and good particle size distribution (indicated by a polydispersity index of <0.3). The NLC-P-α-M exhibited good entrapment efficiency of 87.972 ± 0.246%. Dissolution testing indicated a ~13-fold increase in the solubility of α-mangostin compared to α-mangostin powder alone. The incorporation into the propolis-based NLC system correlated well with the enhanced antioxidant activity of α-mangostin (p < 0.01) compared to NLC-P and α-mangostin alone. Therefore, the modification of the delivery system by incorporating α-mangostin into the propolis-based NLC overcomes the physicochemical challenges of α-mangostin while enhancing its antioxidant effectiveness.

Physiological Roles of Hippo Signaling Pathway and Autophagy in Dementia.

BACKGROUND: Dementia is a neurocognitive disorder associated with the aging brain and mainly affects the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. The Hippo signaling pathway and autophagy proteins have been found to be perturbed in the brain affected by dementia processes. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aims to elaborate on the involvement of the Hippo signaling pathway and autophagy in modulating the progression and severity of dementia in aging. METHODS: Searches were conducted on MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. RESULTS: The Hippo signaling pathway is dependent upon the transcriptional co-activator YAP/TAZ, which forms complexes with TEAD in the nucleus in order to maintain cell homeostasis. When the expression YAP/TAZ is reduced, transcriptional repression-induced atypical cell death, ballooning cell death, and necrosis will consequently occur in the neurons. Moreover, the autophagic proteins, such as LC3, ATG proteins, and Beclin, are reduced, resulting in the disruption of autophagosome formation and accumulation and the spread of misfolded proteins in the brain suffering from dementia. CONCLUSION: The impairment of the Hippo signaling pathway and autophagy in the dementia process in aging should be considered since it might predict the severity, treatment, and prevention of dementia.

Recent Update on the Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Propolis.

In recent years, research has demonstrated the efficacy propolis as a potential raw material for pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. There is limited report detailing the mechanisms of action of propolis and its bioactive compounds in relation to their anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, the aim of the present review is to examine the latest experimental evidence (2017-2022) regarding the anti-inflammatory properties of propolis. A systematic scoping review methodology was implemented. After applying the exclusion criteria, a total of 166 research publications were identified and retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, and Pubmed. Several key themes related to the anti-inflammatory properties of propolis were subsequently identified, namely in relation to cancers, oral health, metabolic syndrome, organ toxicity and inflammation, immune system, wound healing, and pathogenic infections. Based on the latest experimental evidence, propolis is demonstrated to possess various mechanisms of action in modulating inflammation towards the regulatory balance and anti-inflammatory environment. In general, we summarize that propolis acts as an anti-inflammatory substance by inhibiting and downregulating TLR4, MyD88, IRAK4, TRIF, NLRP inflammasomes, NF-κB, and their associated pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1ß, IL-6, IFN-γ, and TNF-α. Propolis also reduces the migration of immune cells such as macrophages and neutrophils, possibly by downregulating the chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10.

The Suitability of Propolis as a Bioactive Component of Biomaterials.

Propolis is a resinous product collected by bees from plant exudates to protect and maintain hive homeostasis. Propolis has been used therapeutically for centuries as folk medicine. Modern research investigating the diversity of the chemical composition and plant sources, biological activity, extraction processes, analytical methods, and therapeutic properties in clinical settings have been carried out extensively since the 1980s. Due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immuno-modulator properties, propolis appears to be a suitable bioactive component to be incorporated into biomaterials. This review article attempts to analyze the potential application of propolis as a biomaterial component from the available experimental evidence. The efficacy and compabitility of propolis depend upon factors, such as types of extracts and types of biomaterials. Generally, propolis appears to be compatible with hydroxyapatite/calcium phosphate-based biomaterials. Propolis enhances the antimicrobial properties of the resulting composite materials while improving the physicochemical properties. Furthermore, propolis is also compatible with wound/skin dressing biomaterials. Propolis improves the wound healing properties of the biomaterials with no negative effects on the physicochemical properties of the composite biomaterials. However, the effect of propolis on the glass-based biomaterials cannot be generalized. Depending on the concentration, types of extract, and geographical sources of the propolis, the effect on the glass biomaterials can either be an improvement or detrimental in terms of mechanical properties such as compressive strength and shear bond strength. In conclusion, two of the more consistent impacts of propolis across these different types of biomaterials are the enhancement of the antimicrobial and the immune-modulator/anti-inflammatory properties resulting from the combination of propolis and the biomaterials.

The Potential Use of Propolis as an Adjunctive Therapy in Breast Cancers.

Propolis is a resinous beehive product that has a wide range of biological activities, namely antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Propolis is collected by the bees from plant resin and exudates to protect hives and maintain hive homeostasis. The aim of the present systematic scoping review is to explore the potential and suitability of propolis as an adjunctive treatment in breast cancers, based on the latest available experimental evidence (2012-2021). After applying the exclusion criteria, a total of 83 research publications were identified and retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, and Pubmed. Several relevant key themes identified from the included studies were cytotoxicity, synergistic/combination treatment, improvement in bioavailability, human clinical trials, and others. A majority of the studies identified were still in the in vitro and in vivo stages. Nonetheless, we managed to identify 4 human clinical trials that demonstrated the successful use of propolis in alleviating side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy while increasing the quality of life of breast cancer patients, with minimal adverse effects. In conclusion, propolis, as an adjunctive treatment, may have therapeutic benefits in alleviating symptoms related to breast cancers. However, further clinical trials, preferably with higher number of participants/subjects/patients, are urgently needed.

The Potential Use of Propolis as a Primary or an Adjunctive Therapy in Respiratory Tract-Related Diseases and Disorders: A Systematic Scoping Review.

Propolis is a resinous beehive product that is collected by the bees from plant resin and exudates, to protect and maintain hive homeostasis. Propolis has been used by humans therapeutically to treat many ailments including respiratory tract-related diseases and disorders. The aim of the present systematic scoping review is to evaluate the experimental evidence to support the use of propolis as a primary or an adjunctive therapy in respiratory tract-related diseases and disorders. After applying the exclusion criteria, 158 research publications were retrieved and identified from Scopus, Web of Science, Pubmed, and Google Scholar. The key themes of the included studies were pathogenic infection-related diseases and disorders, inflammation-related disorders, lung cancers, and adverse effects. Furthermore, the potential molecular and biochemical mechanisms of action of propolis in alleviating respiratory tract-related diseases and disorders are discussed. In conclusion, the therapeutic benefits of propolis have been demonstrated by various in vitro studies, in silico studies, animal models, and human clinical trials. Based on the weight and robustness of the available experimental and clinical evidence, propolis is effective, either as a primary or an adjunctive therapy, in treating respiratory tract-related diseases.

Can Propolis Be a Useful Adjuvant in Brain and Neurological Disorders and Injuries? A Systematic Scoping Review of the Latest Experimental Evidence.

Propolis has been used therapeutically for centuries. In recent years, research has demonstrated its efficacy as a potential raw material for pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. The aim of the present scoping review is to examine the latest experimental evidence regarding the potential use of propolis in protecting the brain and treating neurological disorders and injuries. A systematic scoping review methodology was implemented. Identification of the research themes and knowledge gap was performed. After applying the exclusion criteria, a total of 66 research publications were identified and retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, Pubmed, and Google Scholar. Several key themes where propolis is potentially useful were subsequently identified, namely detoxification, neuroinflammation, ischemia/ischemia-reperfusion injury/traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and epilepsy models, depression, cytotoxicity, cognitive improvement, regenerative medicine, brain infection, and adverse effects. In conclusion, propolis is shown to have protective and therapeutic benefits in alleviating symptoms of brain and neurological disorders and injuries, demonstrated by various in vitro studies, animal models, and human clinical trials. Further clinical research into this area is needed.

Antiviral, Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Antiparasitic Properties of Propolis: A Review.

Propolis is a complex phytocompound made from resinous and balsamic material harvested by bees from flowers, branches, pollen, and tree exudates. Humans have used propolis therapeutically for centuries. The aim of this article is to provide comprehensive review of the antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties of propolis. The mechanisms of action of propolis are discussed. There are two distinct impacts with regards to antimicrobial and anti-parasitic properties of propolis, on the pathogens and on the host. With regards to the pathogens, propolis acts by disrupting the ability of the pathogens to invade the host cells by forming a physical barrier and inhibiting enzymes and proteins needed for invasion into the host cells. Propolis also inhibits the replication process of the pathogens. Moreover, propolis inhibits the metabolic processes of the pathogens by disrupting cellular organelles and components responsible for energy production. With regard to the host, propolis functions as an immunomodulator. It upregulates the innate immunity and modulates the inflammatory signaling pathways. Propolis also helps maintain the host's cellular antioxidant status. More importantly, a small number of human clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and the safety of propolis as an adjuvant therapy for pathogenic infections.

Propolis in Metabolic Syndrome and Its Associated Chronic Diseases: A Narrative Review.

Propolis is a resinous product collected by bees from plants to protect and maintain the homeostasis of their hives. Propolis has been used therapeutically by humans for centuries. This review article attempts to analyze the potential use of propolis in metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its associated chronic diseases. MetS and its chronic diseases were shown to be involved in at least seven out of the top 10 causes of death in 2019. Patients with MetS are also at a heightened risk of severe morbidity and mortality in the present COVID-19 pandemic. Propolis with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties is potentially useful in ameliorating the symptoms of MetS and its associated chronic diseases. The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive review on propolis and its therapeutic benefit in MetS and its chronic diseases, with an emphasis on in vitro and in vivo studies, as well as human clinical trials. Moreover, the molecular and biochemical mechanisms of action of propolis are also discussed. Propolis inhibits the development and manifestation of MetS and its chronic diseases by inhibiting of the expression and interaction of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and their receptors (RAGEs), inhibiting pro-inflammatory signaling cascades, and promoting the cellular antioxidant systems.

The use of propolis in dentistry, oral health, and medicine: A review.

BACKGROUND: Propolis is a resinous product that is collected from plants by bees to cover holes and crevices in their hives. Propolis has potent antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and anticancer properties. Propolis has been used therapeutically by humans for centuries, including the treatment of dental caries and mouth infections. HIGHLIGHT: This review article attempts to analyze the potential use of propolis in general dentistry and oral health management. CONCLUSION: Propolis is potentially useful in dentistry and oral health management based on available in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo studies, as well as human clinical trials.

Unusual presentation of oral hemangioma in tongue and the potential use of propolis as an adjunctive treatment.

Tongue hemangioma is a rare case of vascular tumors that causes symptoms such as pain, bleeding, difficulty in chewing, speaking, and breathing. We report a case of an oral lobular capillary hemangioma on the dorsal surface of the tongue treated with surgical excision and postoperative application of propolis extract.

Optimizing metabolic stress disinfection and disinfestation components to control Pseudococcus longispinus.

Metabolic stress disinfection and disinfestation (MSDD) has been demonstrated to effectively control longtailed mealybug, Pseudococcus longispinus (Targioni Tozzetti). Standard components previously used for testing MSDD system included a 30-min physical phase of short cycles pressure changes followed by a 60-min chemical phase using ethanol vapor at 10 kPa. This study investigated the effect of varying the following MSDD components on mealybug mortality: duration of the physical and chemical phases, ethanol concentration, and extent of vacuum during the chemical phase. Mealybug mortality responses were analyzed, and the components were optimized using binary logistical regression to achieve 99% mortality of three life stages of the longtailed mealybug (adults, second- and third-instar nymphs and crawlers). Data indicated that the optimal components to achieve 99% mortality of all life stages were a 30-min physical phase and a 45-min chemical phase with 275 mg/liter ethanol at 30 kPa. Optimized components were obtained using binary logistical regression models. These optimized components yielded a 15-min reduction in total treatment time and a 20-kPa decrease in pressure during the chemical phase. Achievement of optimal insecticidal efficacy required all four MSDD components. Nevertheless, optimization and validation achieved 17 and 22% reductions in duration of treatment time and extent of vacuum, respectively.