Photoprotective properties of four structure propolis from Heterotrigona itama stingless beehive: Fractionation, bioactivity analysis, and chemical profiling

Sivakumar Mohan ¹, Wahizatul Afzan Azmi ¹, Rameshkumar Santhanam ^1,2

⁰Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.

Heliyon +

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December 6, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Heterotrigona itama stingless bee propolis extract offers photoprotection. Its water fraction demonstrated superior SPF (16.55) and anti-collagenase activity, showing potential for natural sunscreens.

Area Of Science

Bioprospecting of natural products
Dermatology and cosmetic science
Chemical analysis of natural compounds

Background

Stingless bee propolis, particularly from *Heterotrigona itama*, contains bioactive compounds with potential UV-protective properties.
Propolis is collected from various hive structures, and its composition can vary based on origin and collection method.
Assessing the photoprotective capacity of propolis extracts is crucial for developing natural skincare ingredients.

Purpose Of The Study

To evaluate the photoprotective potential of crude ethanol extract and its fractions from *H. itama* propolis.
To identify the most active fraction and its key chemical constituents responsible for UV protection and other beneficial properties.
To determine the safety and efficacy of propolis fractions for potential use in sunscreen and skincare formulations.

Main Methods

Collection and extraction of propolis from *H. itama* hives, followed by fractionation using hexane and water.
In vitro assays including SPF determination, UV-Vis spectroscopy, total phenolic and flavonoid content analysis, DPPH free radical scavenging assay, and anti-collagenase activity assessment.
LC-MS/MS analysis for chemical profiling of the active fraction and cytotoxicity assessment using HaCaT cells.

Main Results

The water fraction (W) of the involucrum extract exhibited the highest SPF (16.55 ± 0.24) and broad UV absorption.
The W fraction showed significant anti-collagenase activity and contained high levels of flavonoids (79.82 ± 6.21 mg/g QE DW).
LC-MS/MS identified bioactive flavonoids like pratensein and quercetin in the W fraction, which demonstrated no cytotoxicity.

Conclusions

The water fraction derived from the involucrum of *H. itama* stingless bee propolis possesses significant photoprotective and anti-aging properties.
This fraction is a promising natural ingredient for developing effective and safe sunscreen and skincare products.
Further research into the specific mechanisms and synergistic effects of identified compounds is warranted.

Keywords:

Flavonoids H. itama HaCaT Propolis Sunscreen UV