Brazilian red propolis effects on peritoneal macrophage activity: Nitric oxide, cell viability, pro-inflammatory

Bruno Bueno-Silva1, Dione Kawamoto2, Ellen S Ando-Suguimoto2

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Dental Research Division, Guarulhos University, Brazil, 07023-070 Guarulhos, SP, Brazil.

Abstract

Insights

Brazilian red propolis (BRP) exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by reducing nitric oxide (NO) and pro-inflammatory cytokines in macrophages. This study clarifies BRP

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Pharmacology
  • Natural Products

Background:

  • Propolis, utilized in traditional medicine, has demonstrated neutrophil inhibitory effects.
  • The impact of propolis on macrophages, key immune cells, remained largely uncharacterized.
  • Brazilian red propolis (BRP) is a natural product with potential therapeutic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of Brazilian red propolis (BRP) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated peritoneal macrophages.
  • To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying BRP's immunomodulatory actions.

Main Methods:

  • Peritoneal macrophages from C57BL6 mice were activated with LPS and treated with varying concentrations of BRP (50-80µg/mL).
  • Assessed cell viability, nitric oxide (NO) production, 20 cytokine levels, and gene expression profiles (360 genes).
  • Statistical analysis was performed to determine significant effects.

Main Results:

  • BRP at 60µg/mL significantly reduced NO production by 65% without compromising cell viability.
  • BRP treatment led to decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12, and TNF-α.
  • Gene expression analysis revealed modulation of key inflammatory and cell signaling pathways by BRP.

Conclusions:

  • Brazilian red propolis (BRP) possesses significant anti-inflammatory effects on activated macrophages.
  • BRP reduces nitric oxide production and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
  • The study highlights BRP as a potential therapeutic agent for inflammatory conditions.

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