Exploring the Prospective Role of Propolis in Modifying Aging Hallmarks

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and molecular biology
• Natural product chemistry
• Biomedical research

Background:

• Global aging populations increase focus on age-related diseases.
• The "hallmarks of aging" framework guides research into aging mechanisms.
• Propolis, a natural substance, possesses bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review scientific evidence on propolis's role in addressing aging hallmarks.
• To explore propolis as a potential therapeutic agent in geroscience.
• To identify research gaps and future perspectives in propolis-based aging research.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on propolis and aging.
• Analysis of propolis's effects on cellular and molecular aging hallmarks.
• Synthesis of evidence regarding propolis's bioactive compounds and their mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Propolis modulates key aging hallmarks: inflammation, oxidative stress, and gut microbiota.
• Evidence supports propolis's antitumor, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective effects.
• Propolis demonstrates potential in mitigating DNA damage and pathogenic bacteria.

Conclusions:

• Propolis exhibits significant potential as a functional food in geroscience research.
• Its bioactive compounds offer a promising avenue for developing novel anti-aging therapies.
• Further investigation is warranted to fully elucidate propolis's therapeutic applications for age-related conditions.