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Immune activation and radioprotection by propolis.
Yasuyuki Takagi1, In-Sook Choi, Takenori Yamashita
1Graduate School of Health Science, Suzuka University of Medical Science 1001-1 Kishioka-cho, Suzuka-shi, Mie 510-0293, Japan.
The American Journal of Chinese Medicine
|June 25, 2005
Summary
Propolis modulates the immune system by increasing IgM and CD4+ T-cells while decreasing IgG. It also activates macrophages, leading to interferon-gamma production and enhanced cell-mediated immunity, potentially offering radioprotective effects.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Natural Products Research
Background:
- Propolis is a natural resinous mixture produced by honeybees.
- Its immunomodulatory and potential radioprotective properties warrant investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the immune-stimulating effects of Propolis.
- To examine the radioprotective potential of Propolis by assessing its impact on the immune system following irradiation.
Main Methods:
- Mice were administered Propolis and/or whole-body irradiation.
- Immune responses were evaluated by measuring total immunoglobulin (Ig) G and IgM levels.
- T-lymphocyte subsets (CD4+, CD8+) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) production were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Propolis significantly increased IgM and CD4+ T-cell counts.
- Propolis suppressed IgG production and decreased CD8+ T-cell counts post-irradiation.
- Propolis activated macrophages, leading to increased IFN-γ production and T-lymphocyte proliferation.
Conclusions:
- Propolis exhibits complex immunomodulatory effects, stimulating certain immune components (IgM, CD4+ T-cells, IFN-γ) while suppressing others (IgG).
- These effects suggest a role for Propolis in modulating cell-mediated immunity and potentially offering radioprotection.