1
|
Oršolić N, Jazvinšćak Jembrek M. Royal Jelly: Biological Action and Health Benefits. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6023. [PMID: 38892209 PMCID: PMC11172503 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Royal jelly (RJ) is a highly nutritious natural product with great potential for use in medicine, cosmetics, and as a health-promoting food. This bee product is a mixture of important compounds, such as proteins, vitamins, lipids, minerals, hormones, neurotransmitters, flavonoids, and polyphenols, that underlie the remarkable biological and therapeutic activities of RJ. Various bioactive molecules like 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA), antibacterial protein, apisin, the major royal jelly proteins, and specific peptides such as apisimin, royalisin, royalactin, apidaecin, defensin-1, and jelleins are characteristic ingredients of RJ. RJ shows numerous physiological and pharmacological properties, including vasodilatory, hypotensive, antihypercholesterolaemic, antidiabetic, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-aging, neuroprotective, antimicrobial, estrogenic, anti-allergic, anti-osteoporotic, and anti-tumor effects. Moreover, RJ may reduce menopause symptoms and improve the health of the reproductive system, liver, and kidneys, and promote wound healing. This article provides an overview of the molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of RJ in various diseases, aging, and aging-related complications, with special emphasis on the bioactive components of RJ and their health-promoting properties. The data presented should be an incentive for future clinical studies that hopefully will advance our knowledge about the therapeutic potential of RJ and facilitate the development of novel RJ-based therapeutic opportunities for improving human health and well-being.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nada Oršolić
- Division of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Rooseveltov trg 6, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maja Jazvinšćak Jembrek
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Laboratory for Protein Dynamics, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- School of Medicine, Catholic University of Croatia, Ilica 242, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
El-Seedi HR, Salama S, El-Wahed AAA, Guo Z, Di Minno A, Daglia M, Li C, Guan X, Buccato DG, Khalifa SAM, Wang K. Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Royal Jelly in Metabolic Disorders and Gastrointestinal Diseases. Nutrients 2024; 16:393. [PMID: 38337678 PMCID: PMC10856930 DOI: 10.3390/nu16030393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic disorders, encompassing diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, etc., pose a substantial global health threat, with rising morbidity and mortality rates. Addressing these disorders is crucial, as conventional drugs often come with high costs and adverse effects. This review explores the potential of royal jelly (RJ), a natural bee product rich in bioactive components, as an alternative strategy for managing metabolic diseases. RJ exhibits diverse therapeutic properties, including antimicrobial, estrogen-like, anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, anticancer, and antioxidant effects. This review's focus is on investigating how RJ and its components impact conditions like diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and gastrointestinal illnesses. Evidence suggests that RJ serves as a complementary treatment for various health issues, notably demonstrating cholesterol- and glucose-lowering effects in diabetic rats. Specific RJ-derived metabolites, such as 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA), also known as the "Queen bee acid," show promise in reducing insulin resistance and hyperglycemia. Recent research highlights RJ's role in modulating immune responses, enhancing anti-inflammatory cytokines, and suppressing key inflammatory mediators. Despite these promising findings, further research is needed to comprehensively understand the mechanisms underlying RJ's therapeutic effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hesham R. El-Seedi
- Pharmacognosy Group, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Biomedical Centre, P.O. Box 591, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China;
- International Joint Research Laboratory of Intelligent Agriculture and Agri-Products Processing, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 210024, China
| | - Suzy Salama
- Indigenous Knowledge and Heritage Center, Ghibaish College of Science and Technology, Ghibaish 51111, Sudan;
| | - Aida A. Abd El-Wahed
- Department of Bee Research, Plant Protection Research Institute, Agricultural Research Centre, Giza 12627, Egypt;
| | - Zhiming Guo
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China;
| | - Alessandro Di Minno
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.D.M.); (M.D.); (D.G.B.)
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Daglia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.D.M.); (M.D.); (D.G.B.)
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Chuan Li
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China;
| | - Xiao Guan
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China;
- National Grain Industry (Urban Grain and Oil Security) Technology Innovation Center, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Daniele Giuseppe Buccato
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.D.M.); (M.D.); (D.G.B.)
| | - Shaden A. M. Khalifa
- Psychiatry and Neurology Department, Capio Saint Göran’s Hospital, Sankt Göransplan 1, 112 19 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Baptista BG, Lima LS, Ribeiro M, Britto IK, Alvarenga L, Kemp JA, Cardozo LFMF, Berretta AA, Mafra D. Royal jelly: a predictive, preventive and personalised strategy for novel treatment options in non-communicable diseases. EPMA J 2023; 14:381-404. [PMID: 37605655 PMCID: PMC10439876 DOI: 10.1007/s13167-023-00330-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Royal jelly (RJ) is a bee product produced by young adult worker bees, composed of water, proteins, carbohydrates and lipids, rich in bioactive components with therapeutic properties, such as free fatty acids, mainly 10-hydroxy-trans-2-decenoic acid (10-H2DA) and 10-hydroxydecanoic acid (10-HDA), and major royal jelly proteins (MRJPs), as well as flavonoids, most flavones and flavonols, hormones, vitamins and minerals. In vitro, non-clinical and clinical studies have confirmed its vital role as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. This narrative review discusses the possible effects of royal jelly on preventing common complications of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as inflammation, oxidative stress and intestinal dysbiosis, from the viewpoint of predictive, preventive and personalised medicine (PPPM/3PM). It is concluded that RJ, predictively, can be used as a non-pharmacological therapy to prevent and mitigate complications related to NCDs, and the treatment must be personalised.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz G. Baptista
- Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Niterói, RJ Brazil
| | - Ligia S. Lima
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences – Physiology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
| | - Marcia Ribeiro
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences – Physiology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
| | - Isadora K. Britto
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences – Physiology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
| | - Livia Alvarenga
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences – Physiology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
- Graduate Program in Nutrition Sciences, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Niterói, RJ Brazil
| | - Julie A. Kemp
- Graduate Program in Nutrition Sciences, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Niterói, RJ Brazil
| | - Ludmila FMF Cardozo
- Graduate Program in Nutrition Sciences, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Niterói, RJ Brazil
| | - Andresa A. Berretta
- Research, Development, and Innovation Department, Apis Flora Indl. Coml. Ltda, Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Denise Mafra
- Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Niterói, RJ Brazil
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences – Physiology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
- Graduate Program in Nutrition Sciences, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Niterói, RJ Brazil
- Unidade de Pesquisa Clínica, UPC, Rua Marquês de Paraná, 303/4 Andar, Niterói, RJ 24033-900 Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kobayashi G, Okamura T, Majima S, Senmaru T, Okada H, Ushigome E, Nakanishi N, Nishimoto Y, Yamada T, Okamoto H, Okumura N, Sasano R, Hamaguchi M, Fukui M. Effects of Royal Jelly on Gut Dysbiosis and NAFLD in db/ db Mice. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15112580. [PMID: 37299544 DOI: 10.3390/nu15112580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Royal jelly (RJ) is a naturally occurring substance synthesized by honeybees and has various health benefits. Herein, we focused on the medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) unique to RJ and evaluated their therapeutic efficacy in treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We examined db/m mice that were exclusively fed a normal diet, db/db mice exclusively fed a normal diet, and db/db mice fed varying RJ quantities (0.2, 1, and 5%). RJ improved NAFLD activity scores and decreased gene expression related to fatty acid metabolism, fibrosis, and inflammation in the liver. RJ regulated innate immunity-related inflammatory responses in the small intestine and decreased the expression of genes associated with inflammation and nutrient absorption transporters. RJ increased the number of operational taxonomic units, the abundance of Bacteroides, and seven taxa, including bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids. RJ increased the concentrations of RJ-related MCFAs (10-hidroxy-2-decenoic acid, 10-hydroxydecanoic acid, 2-decenedioic acid, and sebacic acid) in the serum and liver. These RJ-related MCFAs decreased saturated fatty acid deposition in HepG2 cells and decreased the gene expression associated with fibrosis and fatty acid metabolism. RJ and RJ-related MCFAs improved dysbiosis and regulated the expression of inflammation-, fibrosis-, and nutrient absorption transporter-related genes, thereby preventing NAFLD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Genki Kobayashi
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Takuro Okamura
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Saori Majima
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Takafumi Senmaru
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Okada
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Emi Ushigome
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Naoko Nakanishi
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | | | - Takuji Yamada
- Metabologenomics Inc., Tsuruoka 997-0052, Japan
- Department of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
| | - Hideto Okamoto
- Institute for Health Science, R&D Department, Yamada Bee Company, Inc., Okayama 708-0393, Japan
| | - Nobuaki Okumura
- Institute for Health Science, R&D Department, Yamada Bee Company, Inc., Okayama 708-0393, Japan
| | | | - Masahide Hamaguchi
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Michiaki Fukui
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Royal Jelly Increases Hematopoietic Stem Cells in Peripheral Blood: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Trial in Healthy Subjects. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 2023:7665515. [PMID: 36686976 PMCID: PMC9859695 DOI: 10.1155/2023/7665515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Royal jelly (RJ), produced by honeybees, influences stem cell functions, such as pluripotency maintenance of mouse embryonic stem cells and prevention of aging-related muscle stem cell functional deterioration. Thus, we hypothesized that RJ administration has various health-promoting effects based on stem cells. However, its effects are unknown in humans. In this study, we have attempted for the first time to clarify whether the administration of RJ in humans affects stem cells. Materials and Methods This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was performed on healthy subjects (n = 90) who received protease-treated RJ at a dose of 1200 mg/day or placebo daily for four weeks. Also, the participants with a low number of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in peripheral blood were preferentially selected. HSC counts, endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) counts, blood cell counts in peripheral blood, cytokines in serum, and physical conditions were evaluated. Results and Conclusion. Eligible data from 86 subjects (placebo: 42, RJ: 44) who completed the study were analyzed. There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding the changes in peripheral HSC count (p=0.103), while diastolic blood pressure showed a significant improvement in the RJ group compared to that in the placebo group (p=0.032). The subgroup analysis excluded 14 subjects who complained of cold symptoms at baseline or within five days of the four-week study. The changes in the HSC populations were significantly higher in the RJ group than those in the placebo group (p=0.042). No adverse effects were observed in any of the groups. These results suggest that RJ administration affected the peripheral HSC count and may influence stem cell functions. Further research is needed to reveal the various health-promoting benefits of RJ based on stem cells.
Collapse
|
6
|
Safranal Induces Vasorelaxation by Inhibiting Ca2+ Influx and Na+/Ca2+ Exchanger in Isolated Rat Aortic Rings. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27134228. [PMID: 35807473 PMCID: PMC9268204 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27134228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Safranal, which endows saffron its unique aroma, causes vasodilatation and has a hypotensive effect in animal studies, but the mechanisms of these effects are unknown. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms of safranal vasodilation. Methods: Isolated rat endothelium-intact or -denuded aortic rings were precontracted with phenylephrine and then relaxed with safranal. To further assess the involvement of nitric oxide, prostaglandins, guanylate cyclase, and phospholipase A2 in safranal-induced vasodilation, aortic rings were preincubated with L-NAME, indomethacin, methylene blue, or quinacrine, respectively, then precontracted with phenylephrine, and safranal concentration–response curves were established. To explore the effects of safranal on Ca2+ influx, phenylephrine and CaCl2 concentration–response curves were established in the presence of safranal. Furthermore, the effect of safranal on aortic rings in the presence of ouabain, a Na+-K+ ATPase inhibitor, was studied to explore the contribution of Na+/Ca2+ exchanger to this vasodilation. Results: Safranal caused vasodilation in endothelium-intact and endothelium-denuded aortic rings. The vasodilation was not eliminated by pretreatment with L-NAME, indomethacin, methylene blue, or quinacrine, indicating the lack of a role for NO/cGMP. Safranal significantly inhibited the maximum contractions induced by phenylephrine, or by CaCl2 in Ca2+-free depolarizing buffer. Safranal also relaxed contractions induced by ouabain, but pretreatment with safranal totally abolished the development of ouabain contractions. Discussion/Conclusion: Inhibition of Na+-K+ ATPase by ouabain leads to the accumulation of Na+ intracellularly, forcing the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger to work in reverse mode, thus causing a contraction. Inhibition of the development of this contraction by preincubation with safranal indicates that safranal inhibited the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger. We conclude that safranal vasodilation is mediated by the inhibition of calcium influx from extracellular space through L-type Ca2+ channels and by the inhibition of the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger.
Collapse
|
7
|
El-Seedi HR, Eid N, Abd El-Wahed AA, Rateb ME, Afifi HS, Algethami AF, Zhao C, Al Naggar Y, Alsharif SM, Tahir HE, Xu B, Wang K, Khalifa SAM. Honey Bee Products: Preclinical and Clinical Studies of Their Anti-inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Properties. Front Nutr 2022; 8:761267. [PMID: 35047540 PMCID: PMC8762236 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.761267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a defense process triggered when the body faces assaults from pathogens, toxic substances, microbial infections, or when tissue is damaged. Immune and inflammatory disorders are common pathogenic pathways that lead to the progress of various chronic diseases, such as cancer and diabetes. The overproduction of cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α, is an essential parameter in the clinical diagnosis of auto-inflammatory diseases. In this review, the effects of bee products have on inflammatory and autoimmune diseases are discussed with respect to the current literature. The databases of Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Sci-Finder and clinical trials were screened using different combinations of the following terms: “immunomodulatory”, “anti-inflammatory”, “bee products”, “honey”, “propolis”, “royal jelly”, “bee venom”, “bee pollen”, “bee bread”, “preclinical trials”, “clinical trials”, and “safety”. Honey bee products, including propolis, royal jelly, honey, bee venom, and bee pollen, or their bioactive chemical constituents like polyphenols, demonstrate interesting therapeutic potential in the regulation of inflammatory mediator production as per the increase of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, Il-2, and Il-7, and the decrease of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Additionally, improvement in the immune response via activation of B and T lymphocyte cells, both in in vitro, in vivo and in clinical studies was reported. Thus, the biological properties of bee products as anti-inflammatory, immune protective, antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and antimicrobial agents have prompted further clinical investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hesham R El-Seedi
- Pharmacognosy Group, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Biomedical Centre, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,International Research Center for Food Nutrition and Safety, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.,International Joint Research Laboratory of Intelligent Agriculture and Agri-Products Processing, Jiangsu Education Department, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.,Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Menoufia University, Shebeen El-Kom, Egypt
| | - Nehal Eid
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Menoufia University, Shebeen El-Kom, Egypt
| | - Aida A Abd El-Wahed
- Department of Bee Research, Plant Protection Research Institute, Agricultural Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mostafa E Rateb
- School of Computing, Engineering & Physical Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley, United Kingdom
| | - Hanan S Afifi
- Food Research Section, R&D Division, Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Chao Zhao
- College of Food Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yahya Al Naggar
- General Zoology Group, Institute for Biology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany.,Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Sultan M Alsharif
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Taibah University, Medina, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Baojun Xu
- Programme of Food Science and Technology, BNU-HKBU United International College, Zhuhai, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shaden A M Khalifa
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Aslan A, Beyaz S, Gok O, Can MI, Parlak G, Ozercan IH, Gundogdu R. Royal jelly abrogates flouride-induced oxidative damage in rat heart tissue by activating of the nrf-2/NF-κB and bcl-2/bax pathway. Toxicol Mech Methods 2021; 31:644-654. [PMID: 34227456 DOI: 10.1080/15376516.2021.1950249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Royal jelly is known to strengthen memory, provide antioxidative, antidiabetic, antitumor, anticancer, antibacterial, antiinflammatory, antihypertensive. In this study, 42 rats (n = 42) were used, and these rats were divided into 6 groups of 7 rats each. Groups: (i) Control Group: Group fed with standard diet; (ii) Royal Jelly (RJ) Group: RJ (100 mg/kg bw, gavage); (iii) F50 Group: Fluoride (50 mg/kg bw, drinking water); (iv) F100 Group: F (100 mg/kg bw, drinking water); (v) F50 + RJ Group: F (50 mg/kg bw, drinking water) + RJ (100 mg/kg bw, gavage); (vi) F100 + RJ Group: F (100 mg/kg bw, drinking water) + RJ (100 mg/kg bw, gavage). The rats were decapitated after 8 weeks, and their heart tissues were taken and examined. Lipid peroxidation by MDA (malondialdehyde) analyzes, GSH (glutathione) level and catalase activity were determined by spectrophotometer. Protein expression levels of caspase-3, caspase-6, caspase-9, Bcl-2, Bax, BDNF, Gsk-3, Nrf-2 and NF-κB proteins in heart tissue were determined by western blotting technique and hearth tissue evaluated by histopathologically. As a result, MDA levels, Bcl-2, Gsk-3 and NF-κB protein expression levels were reduced, whereas GSH levels, caspase-3, caspase-9, caspase-6, Bax, BDNF and Nrf-2 protein levels were increased in the F50 + RJ and F100 + RJ groups compared to the F50 and F100 groups. According to the results of this study, it has been concluded that Royal jelly has the potential to be developed in to a drug for treatment of heart diseases in addition to providing protection against heart damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Aslan
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology-Molecular Biology and Genetics Program, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey
| | - Seda Beyaz
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology-Molecular Biology and Genetics Program, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Gok
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology-Molecular Biology and Genetics Program, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey
| | - Muhammed Ismail Can
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Gozde Parlak
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology-Molecular Biology and Genetics Program, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey
| | | | - Ramazan Gundogdu
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Bingol University, Bingol, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yamaga M, Imada T, Tani H, Nakamura S, Yamaki A, Tsubota K. Acetylcholine and Royal Jelly Fatty Acid Combinations as Potential Dry Eye Treatment Components in Mice. Nutrients 2021; 13:2536. [PMID: 34444696 PMCID: PMC8399524 DOI: 10.3390/nu13082536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Dry eye is a multifactorial disease characterized by ocular discomfort and visual impairment. Our previous studies have shown that royal jelly (RJ) has restored the capacity for tear secretion by modulating muscarinic calcium signaling. RJ contains acetylcholine, which is a major cholinergic neurotransmitter, and a unique set of fatty acids with C 8 to 12 chains, which are expected to be associated with health benefits. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the active components involved in tear secretion capacity, focusing on acetylcholine and fatty acids in RJ. Using the stress-induced dry-eye model mice, it was confirmed that acetylcholine with three fatty acids (10-hydroxydecanoic acid, 8-hydroxyoctanoic acid, and (R)-3,10-dihydroxydecanoic acid) was essential for tear secretion. In ex vivo Ca2+ imaging, these three fatty acids suppressed the decrease in intracellular modulation of Ca2+ in the lacrimal gland by acetylcholine when treated with acetylcholinesterase, indicating that the specific type of RJ fatty acids contributed to the stability of acetylcholine. To our knowledge, this study is the first to confirm that a specific compound combination is important for the pharmacological activities of RJ. Our results elucidate the active molecules and efficacy mechanisms of RJ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masayuki Yamaga
- Institute for Bee Products and Health Science, Yamada Bee Company, Inc., Okayama 708-0393, Japan; (M.Y.); (H.T.); (A.Y.)
| | - Toshihiro Imada
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; (T.I.); (S.N.)
| | - Hiroko Tani
- Institute for Bee Products and Health Science, Yamada Bee Company, Inc., Okayama 708-0393, Japan; (M.Y.); (H.T.); (A.Y.)
| | - Shigeru Nakamura
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; (T.I.); (S.N.)
| | - Ayanori Yamaki
- Institute for Bee Products and Health Science, Yamada Bee Company, Inc., Okayama 708-0393, Japan; (M.Y.); (H.T.); (A.Y.)
| | - Kazuo Tsubota
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; (T.I.); (S.N.)
- Tsubota Laboratory, Inc., Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0016, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kafantaris I, Amoutzias GD, Mossialos D. Foodomics in bee product research: a systematic literature review. Eur Food Res Technol 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s00217-020-03634-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
11
|
Ali AM, Kunugi H. Royal Jelly as an Intelligent Anti-Aging Agent-A Focus on Cognitive Aging and Alzheimer's Disease: A Review. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E937. [PMID: 33003559 PMCID: PMC7601550 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9100937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The astronomical increase of the world's aged population is associated with the increased prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases, heightened disability, and extremely high costs of care. Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a widespread, age-related, multifactorial neurodegenerative disease that has enormous social and financial drawbacks worldwide. The unsatisfactory outcomes of available AD pharmacotherapy necessitate the search for alternative natural resources that can target various the underlying mechanisms of AD pathology and reduce disease occurrence and/or progression. Royal jelly (RJ) is the main food of bee queens; it contributes to their fertility, long lifespan, and memory performance. It represents a potent nutraceutical with various pharmacological properties, and has been used in a number of preclinical studies to target AD and age-related cognitive deterioration. To understand the mechanisms through which RJ affects cognitive performance both in natural aging and AD, we reviewed the literature, elaborating on the metabolic, molecular, and cellular mechanisms that mediate its anti-AD effects. Preclinical findings revealed that RJ acts as a multidomain cognitive enhancer that can restore cognitive performance in aged and AD models. It promotes brain cell survival and function by targeting multiple adversities in the neuronal microenvironment such as inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial alterations, impaired proteostasis, amyloid-β toxicity, Ca excitotoxicity, and bioenergetic challenges. Human trials using RJ in AD are limited in quantity and quality. Here, the limitations of RJ-based treatment strategies are discussed, and directions for future studies examining the effect of RJ in cognitively impaired subjects are noted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amira Mohammed Ali
- Department of Mental Disorder Research, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo 187-0031, Japan;
- Department of Psychiatric Nursing and Mental Health, Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21527, Egypt
| | - Hiroshi Kunugi
- Department of Mental Disorder Research, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo 187-0031, Japan;
- Department of Psychiatry, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo 173-8605, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bălan A, Moga MA, Dima L, Toma S, Elena Neculau A, Anastasiu CV. Royal Jelly-A Traditional and Natural Remedy for Postmenopausal Symptoms and Aging-Related Pathologies. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25143291. [PMID: 32698461 PMCID: PMC7397171 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25143291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Women's life stages are based on their reproductive cycle. This cycle begins with menstruation and ends with menopause. Aging is a natural phenomenon that affects all humans, and it is associated with a decrease in the overall function of the organism. In women, aging is related with and starts with menopause. Also, during menopause and postmenopausal period, the risk of various age-related diseases and complaints is higher. For this reason, researchers were pushed to find effective remedies that could promote healthy aging and extended lifespan. Apitherapy is a type of alternative medicine that uses natural products from honeybees, such as honey, propolis, royal jelly, etc. Royal jelly is a natural yellowish-white substance, secreted by both hypopharyngeal and mandibular glands of nurse bees, usually used to feed the queen bees and young worker larvae. Over the centuries, this natural product was considered a gold mine for traditional and natural medicine, due to its miraculous effects. Royal jelly has been used for a long time in commercial medical products. It has been demonstrated to possess a wide range of functional properties, such as: antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, vasodilatative, hypotensive, anticancer, estrogen-like, antihypercholesterolemic, and antioxidant activities. This product is usually used to supplement various diseases such as cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, sexual dysfunctions, diabetes or cancer. The main objective of this study is to highlight the effectiveness of royal jelly supplementation in relieving menopause symptoms and aging-related diseases. We also aimed to review the most recent research advances regarding the composition of royal jelly for a better understanding of the effects on human health promotion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreea Bălan
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transylvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brasov, Romania; (A.B.); (M.A.M.); (C.V.A.)
| | - Marius Alexandru Moga
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transylvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brasov, Romania; (A.B.); (M.A.M.); (C.V.A.)
| | - Lorena Dima
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brasov, Romania;
| | - Sebastian Toma
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brasov, Romania;
- Correspondence: (S.T.); (A.E.N.); Tel.: +40-0268-412-185 (S.T. & A.E.N.)
| | - Andrea Elena Neculau
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brasov, Romania;
- Correspondence: (S.T.); (A.E.N.); Tel.: +40-0268-412-185 (S.T. & A.E.N.)
| | - Costin Vlad Anastasiu
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transylvania University of Brasov, 500019 Brasov, Romania; (A.B.); (M.A.M.); (C.V.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
New Insights into the Biological and Pharmaceutical Properties of Royal Jelly. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21020382. [PMID: 31936187 PMCID: PMC7014095 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Revised: 12/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Royal jelly (RJ) is a yellowish-white and acidic secretion of hypopharyngeal and mandibular glands of nurse bees used to feed young worker larvae during the first three days and the entire life of queen bees. RJ is one of the most appreciated and valued natural product which has been mainly used in traditional medicines, health foods, and cosmetics for a long time in different parts of the world. It is also the most studied bee product, aimed at unravelling its bioactivities, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-aging, immunomodulatory, and general tonic action against laboratory animals, microbial organisms, farm animals, and clinical trials. It is commonly used to supplement various diseases, including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular, and Alzheimer's disease. Here, we highlight the recent research advances on the main bioactive compounds of RJ, such as proteins, peptides, fatty acids, and phenolics, for a comprehensive understanding of the biochemistry, biological, and pharmaceutical responses to human health promotion and life benefits. This is potentially important to gain novel insight into the biological and pharmaceutical properties of RJ.
Collapse
|