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Stimulation of TNF-alpha release in monocytes by honey
A Tonks1, R A Cooper, A J Price
1School of Applied Sciences, University of Wales Institute Cardiff, Western Ave, Cardiff, CF5 2YB, UK.
Abstract:
Although evidence exists for the antibacterial effects of honey there is limited objective evidence for direct promotion of healing. We investigated the effect of manuka, pasture and an artificial honey on macrophage function. Reactive oxygen intermediate (ROI) production was assessed by luminol enhanced chemoluminescence and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) release was determined by immunoassay. ROI production was significantly (P<0.001) decreased by pasture honey and manuka honey. TNF-alpha release was significantly enhanced (P<0.001) in unprimed MM6 cells by manuka and pasture honey but was not altered in primed cells. These results could explain the suggested therapeutic properties of honey in promoting wound healing.
Insights
Manuka and pasture honey can enhance wound healing by modulating macrophage function. These natural honeys reduced reactive oxygen intermediate production and increased tumor necrosis factor-alpha release, suggesting therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Immunology and Microbiology
- Natural Product Research
- Wound Healing Science
Background:
- Honey possesses known antibacterial properties.
- Objective evidence for honey's direct role in promoting wound healing is limited.
- Macrophage function is critical in the inflammatory and healing phases of wound repair.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of different honey types (manuka, pasture, artificial) on macrophage function.
- To assess the effects on reactive oxygen intermediate (ROI) production and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) release.
- To correlate observed effects with honey's potential therapeutic properties in wound healing.
Main Methods:
- Macrophage cell lines (MM6) were utilized.
- Reactive oxygen intermediate (ROI) production was measured using luminol-enhanced chemiluminescence.
- Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) release was quantified via immunoassay in both unprimed and primed cells.
Main Results:
- Both manuka honey and pasture honey significantly decreased ROI production (P<0.001).
- Manuka and pasture honey significantly enhanced TNF-alpha release in unprimed MM6 cells (P<0.001).
- No significant alteration in TNF-alpha release was observed in primed MM6 cells.
Conclusions:
- Manuka and pasture honey modulate key aspects of macrophage function relevant to healing.
- The observed reduction in ROI and enhancement of TNF-alpha may explain honey's therapeutic benefits in wound healing.
- Further research into honey's immunomodulatory effects could validate its use in wound care.