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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.
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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
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Ibrahim DS, Shahen EMS. Effect of royal jelly on acrylamide-induced neurotoxicity in rats. J Chem Neuroanat 2023; 134:102358. [PMID: 37925036 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2023.102358] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Royal Jelly (RJ) is a natural product made by nurse bees known for its multiple therapeutic properties. The research aims to discover the ability of RJ to improve the hematological alterations and neurotoxicity caused by acrylamide (AA). The study rats were separated equally into four groups (6 in each group), the control group, the AA (38.27 mg/kg bw) group, the RJ (150 mg/kg bw) + AA group, and the RJ (300 mg/kg bw) + AA group. Blood and brain samples were collected after 10 days to evaluate haematological and biochemical parameters and to examine histopathological and immunohistochemistry. The administration of AA increased the level of malondialdehyde (MDA), decreases levels of haematological parameters, superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine), and cleaved caspase-3, as well as increase the damage to the brain tissues. Meanwhile, RJ improved levels of haematological parameters, oxidative stress parameters (MDA, SOD, and GSH), BDNF, neurotransmitters, cleaved caspase-3, and brain tissue damage induced by AA. The study demonstrated the protective impact of RJ against the haematological alterations and neurotoxicity caused by AA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doaa S Ibrahim
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Benha University, Benha, Egypt.
| | - Eman M S Shahen
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
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Çakır S. The Effect of Royal Jelly on Telomere Length and Some Biochemical Parameters in Wistar Albino Rats with Liver Damage Caused by Carbon Tetrachloride. J Med Food 2023; 26:580-585. [PMID: 37477674 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2023.0042] [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] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Royal jelly (RJ) is a natural bee product that has been used for therapeutic purposes since ancient times. The therapeutic properties of this product, which has rich biological content, are still being investigated with new approaches. In this study, the effect of RJ on telomere length, some antioxidant parameters, and lipid profile was examined. This study will contribute to the literature as it is the first to evaluate the effect of RJ on the length of telomeres in damaged liver tissues. In the study, the levels of serum triglyceride, total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), telomerase, 8'-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and paraoxonase-1 (PON1) were investigated with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method and telomere lengths were investigated by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The increased TC, LDL-C levels, and AST and ALT activities in the serum after carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) administration approached the control level after RJ administration. PON1 activity decreased in groups with CCl4. PON1 activity increased after RJ administration. The level of 8-OHdG, which increased groups with CCl4, decreased after RJ administration. According to the results of telomere length analysis in liver tissues, telomere lengths in damaged tissues were significantly shortened with CCl4 application and increased with RJ application. Based on the findings of the study, it was concluded that RJ may have therapeutic effects on telomere lengths and some biochemistry parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selcen Çakır
- Vocational School of Health Services, Department of Medical Services and Techniques, Medical Laboratory Techniques Program, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkey
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Khadrawy SM, Mohamed DS, Hassan RM, Abdelgawad MA, Ghoneim MM, Alshehri S, Shaban NS. Royal Jelly and Chlorella vulgaris Mitigate Gibberellic Acid-Induced Cytogenotoxicity and Hepatotoxicity in Rats via Modulation of the PPARα/AP-1 Signaling Pathway and Suppression of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation. Foods 2023; 12:foods12061223. [PMID: 36981150 PMCID: PMC10048508 DOI: 10.3390/foods12061223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Gibberellic acid (GA3) is a well-known plant growth regulator used in several countries, but its widespread use has negative effects on both animal and human health. The current study assesses the protective effect of royal jelly (RJ) and Chlorella vulgaris (CV) on the genotoxicity and hepatic injury induced by GA3 in rats. Daily oral administration of 55 mg/kg GA3 to rats for 6 constitutive weeks induced biochemical and histopathological changes in the liver via oxidative stress and inflammation. Co-administration of 300 mg/kg RJ or 500 mg/kg CV with GA3 considerably ameliorated the serum levels of AST (aspartate aminotransferase), ALT (alanine aminotransferase), ALP (alkaline phosphatase), γGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase), total bilirubin, and albumin. Lowered malondialdehyde, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) levels along with elevated SOD (superoxide dismutase), CAT (catalase), and GPx (glutathione peroxidase) enzyme activities indicated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of both RJ and CV. Also, they improved the histological structure and reduced cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expressions along with up-regulating peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α (PPARα) and down-regulating activator protein 1 (AP-1) gene expression. Additionally, chromosomal abnormalities and mitotic index were nearly normalized after treatment with RJ and CV. In conclusion, RJ and CV can protect against GA3-induced genotoxicity and liver toxicity by diminishing oxidative stress and inflammation, and modulating the PPARα/AP-1 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally M. Khadrawy
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt
- Correspondence: (S.M.K.); (M.A.A.)
| | - Doaa Sh. Mohamed
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt
| | - Randa M. Hassan
- Cytology and Histology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A. Abdelgawad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72341, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: (S.M.K.); (M.A.A.)
| | - Mohammed M. Ghoneim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Ad Diriyah 13713, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacognosy and Medicinal Plants Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Sultan Alshehri
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nema S. Shaban
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt
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Guo J, Wang Z, Chen Y, Cao J, Tian W, Ma B, Dong Y. Active components and biological functions of royal jelly. J Funct Foods 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2021.104514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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Chi X, Liu Z, Wang H, Wang Y, Wei W, Xu B. Royal jelly enhanced the antioxidant activities and modulated the gut microbiota in healthy mice. J Food Biochem 2021; 45:e13701. [PMID: 33792081 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.13701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Royal jelly (RJ) is a well-known traditional health food that has a wide range of pharmacological activities. In this study, mice were fed with different doses of RJ for 30 days and their antioxidant activities and gut microbiota were measured to examine the correlation between gut microbiota and overall health. RJ did not influence the feed consumption or relative organ weight, but RJ did increase the amount of serum interleukin 10 (IL-10), as well as the levels of antioxidant activities in the liver and kidney. The middle dose of RJ (RJM) decreased the relative abundance of Proteobacteria at phylum level, increased the relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group and Bacteroides. Correlation analysis indicated that RJ could optimize the functional network of gut microbiota and the interactions between the gut microbiota and the host. In conclusion, RJ could enhance the antioxidant activities and modulate the gut microbiota. RJM treatment had a more positive effect on physical health compared with RJL and RJH treatments. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Royal jelly is a healthy dietary supplement which has a wide range of functions. The research helps us know the action mechanism of RJ in healthy body and analyzed the correlation of gut microbiota and physiological state. The appropriate dose of RJ was also studied and the health functions of RJ for healthy body were proved. This research could help to increase the RJ consuming in market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuepeng Chi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Zhenguo Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Hongfang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Ying Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Wei Wei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
| | - Baohua Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, China
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Collazo N, Carpena M, Nuñez-Estevez B, Otero P, Simal-Gandara J, Prieto MA. Health Promoting Properties of Bee Royal Jelly: Food of the Queens. Nutrients 2021; 13:543. [PMID: 33562330 PMCID: PMC7915653 DOI: 10.3390/nu13020543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Royal jelly (RJ) demand is growing every year and so is the market for functional foods in general. RJ is formed by different substances, mainly carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, but also vitamins, minerals, and phenolic or volatile compounds in lower proportion. Major royal jelly proteins (MRJP) are, together with 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA), key substances of RJ due to their different biological properties. In particular, 10-HDA is a unique substance in this product. RJ has been historically employed as health enhancer and is still very relevant in China due to the traditional medicine and the apitherapy. Nowadays, it is mainly consumed as a functional food or is found in supplements and other formulations for its health-beneficial properties. Within these properites, anti-lipidemic, antioxidant, antiproliferative, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiaging, and estrogenic activities have been reported for RJ or its specific components. This manuscript is aimed at reviewing the current knowledge on RJ components, their assessment in terms of authenticity, their biological activities, and related health applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Collazo
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Ourense Campus, University of Vigo, E32004 Ourense, Spain; (N.C.); (M.C.); (B.N.-E.); (P.O.)
| | - Maria Carpena
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Ourense Campus, University of Vigo, E32004 Ourense, Spain; (N.C.); (M.C.); (B.N.-E.); (P.O.)
| | - Bernabe Nuñez-Estevez
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Ourense Campus, University of Vigo, E32004 Ourense, Spain; (N.C.); (M.C.); (B.N.-E.); (P.O.)
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolonia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Paz Otero
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Ourense Campus, University of Vigo, E32004 Ourense, Spain; (N.C.); (M.C.); (B.N.-E.); (P.O.)
| | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Ourense Campus, University of Vigo, E32004 Ourense, Spain; (N.C.); (M.C.); (B.N.-E.); (P.O.)
| | - Miguel A. Prieto
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Ourense Campus, University of Vigo, E32004 Ourense, Spain; (N.C.); (M.C.); (B.N.-E.); (P.O.)
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolonia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
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Mokaya HO, Njeru LK, Lattorff HMG. African honeybee royal jelly: Phytochemical contents, free radical scavenging activity, and physicochemical properties. FOOD BIOSCI 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2020.100733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Doğanyiğit Z, Okan A, Kaymak E, Pandır D, Silici S. Investigation of protective effects of apilarnil against lipopolysaccharide induced liver injury in rats via TLR 4/ HMGB-1/ NF-κB pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 125:109967. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.109967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Protective effect of royal jelly against diclofenac-induced hepato-renal damage and gastrointestinal ulcerations in rats. Heliyon 2020; 6:e03330. [PMID: 32025584 PMCID: PMC6997571 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e03330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 12/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Evaluation of traditionally used royal jelly (RJ) for the management of hepato-renal damage and gastrointestinal ulcerations caused by diclofenac. Methods Forty adult male Wistar rats were allocated into four groups. Rats of the 1st group received only saline and served as normal group. The remaining 3 groups received diclofenac (50 mg/kg/day, I.P.) for 7 days. Group 2 served as diclofenac-control group. Groups 3 and 4 received RJ (150 and 300 mg/kg/day, P.O.) respectively for 30 days. Twenty-four hours after the last treatment, blood samples were collected, rats were sacrificed, and livers, kidneys, stomachs & intestines were harvested. Stomachs and intestines were tested for ulcer counts. Serum levels of AST, ALT, creatinine and urea were investigated. Hepatic, renal, gastric and intestinal tissue contents of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and prostaglandin-E2 (PGE2) were measured. Histopathological examinations were also performed followed by immunohistochemical determination of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression. Results Diclofenac administration caused significant deterioration of all the above mentioned parameters. RJ improved hepatic and renal functions. Gastric and intestinal ulcer counts were significantly ameliorated. Hepatic, renal, gastric and intestinal tissue PGE-2 contents and COX-2 expression were significantly elevated. RJ also significantly reduced MPO content and iNOS expression as compared to diclofenac-control group. Improvements of the histopathological pictures of hepatic, renal, gastric and intestinal tissues were also apparent. Conclusion The study demonstrates promising protective effects of RJ against diclofenac-induced hepato-renal damage and gastrointestinal ulceration in rats.
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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.
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You MM, Liu YC, Chen YF, Pan YM, Miao ZN, Shi YZ, Si JJ, Chen ML, Hu FL. Royal jelly attenuates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by inhibiting oxidative stress and regulating the expression of circadian genes in ovariectomized rats. J Food Biochem 2020; 44:e13138. [PMID: 31894585 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.13138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has a high incidence in postmenopausal women and is accompanied by insulin resistance, obesity, and dyslipidemia. Royal jelly (RJ), a natural substance derived from hive, possesses numerous health-beneficial properties. Here, we evaluated the effects of RJ (150, 300, and 450 mg kg-1 day-1 , 8 weeks) on NAFLD in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Based on the results, RJ ameliorated the degree of anxiety, improved serum lipid profile, and attenuated the hepatic steatosis and liver injury in OVX rats. Furthermore, the protective effects of RJ could be attributed to its antioxidant properties, which enhance the levels of hepatic antioxidant enzymes. The qRT-PCR results also suggest that RJ improves the disturbances of circadian genes by downregulating their expression, including that of Per1 and Per 2, in the liver of OVX rats. Altogether, our findings suggest that RJ may be a promising agent for the treatment of NAFLD. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Postmenopausal women are at an increased risk of NAFLD. Currently, there are no licensed therapies for NAFLD. Although hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is reported to inhibit the development of NAFLD, it causes unexpected adverse effects. As HRT is controversial, the use of natural supplements to counteract the detrimental effects of menopause has recently attracted more attention. RJ is a natural product secreted from the hypopharyngeal and mandibular glands of worker bees. The present study illustrates the protective effect of the natural product, RJ, and its underlying mechanisms on NAFLD. This is the first study to assess the effect of RJ on NAFLD under estrogen deficiency. Such findings contribute to the further utilization of RJ, which might serve as a promising therapeutic option and natural food for the treatment of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Meng You
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Chen Liu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Fan Chen
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yong-Ming Pan
- Experimental Animal Research Center, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhuo-Ning Miao
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Zhen Shi
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Juan-Juan Si
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Min-Li Chen
- Experimental Animal Research Center, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fu-Liang Hu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Kocot J, Kiełczykowska M, Luchowska-Kocot D, Kurzepa J, Musik I. Antioxidant Potential of Propolis, Bee Pollen, and Royal Jelly: Possible Medical Application. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2018; 2018:7074209. [PMID: 29854089 PMCID: PMC5954854 DOI: 10.1155/2018/7074209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 205] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Revised: 03/25/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Honeybees products comprise of numerous substances, including propolis, bee pollen, and royal jelly, which have long been known for their medicinal and health-promoting properties. Their wide biological effects have been known and used since antiquity. Bee products are considered to be a potential source of natural antioxidants such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, or terpenoids. Nowadays, the still growing concern in natural substances capable of counteracting the effects of oxidative stress underlying the pathogenesis of numerous diseases, such as neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, diabetes, and atherosclerosis, as well as negative effects of different harmful factors and drugs, is being observed. Having regarded the importance of acquiring drugs from natural sources, this review is aimed at updating the current state of knowledge of antioxidant capacity of selected bee products, namely, propolis, bee pollen, and royal jelly, and of their potential antioxidant-related therapeutic applications. Moreover, the particular attention has been attributed to the understanding of the mechanisms underlying antioxidant properties of bee products. The influence of bee species, plant origin, geographic location, and seasonality as well as type of extraction solutions on the composition of bee products extracts were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kocot
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodźki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Kiełczykowska
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodźki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Dorota Luchowska-Kocot
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodźki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jacek Kurzepa
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodźki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Irena Musik
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodźki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
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Pyrzanowska J, Wawer A, Joniec-Maciejak I, Piechal A, Blecharz-Klin K, Graikou K, Chinou I, Widy-Tyszkiewicz E. Long-term administration of Greek Royal Jelly decreases GABA concentration in the striatum and hypothalamus of naturally aged Wistar male rats. Neurosci Lett 2018; 675:17-22. [PMID: 29578001 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Revised: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Royal Jelly (RJ) is a unique substance obtained from bees that has been used widely in European and Asian traditional medicine for its potential to prevent signs of aging through its antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hypercholesterolemic properties. We recently reported an enhancement in spatial memory along with changes in monoaminergic transmission in aged rats after chronic RJ administration. Here, we aim to further explore the action of RJ on central nervous system activity by examining levels of amino acids in selected brain structures of aged male Wistar rats following 2-months of Greek RJ administration. RJ powder was previously chemically characterized and given orally (50 or 100 mg of powder/kg b.w./day) by gastric gavage. The concentrations of amino acids (alanine, aspartic acid, gamma-aminobutyric acid, glutamic acid, histidine and taurine) in the brain regions examined (prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, striatum and hypothalamus) were quantified using HPLC. We also examined basic biochemical parameters of renal and hepatic activity, as damage of these organs could potentially explain the changes in brain function and behavior. Upon biochemical examination, a decrease in the concentration of gamma-aminobutyric acid was observed in both the striatum and hypothalamus. Liver and kidney functions were not changed by chronic RJ-administration. Our results provide insight toward understanding the mechanism of action of RJ and its effects on neurotransmission in the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Pyrzanowska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology CePT, Banacha 1B, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Adriana Wawer
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology CePT, Banacha 1B, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ilona Joniec-Maciejak
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology CePT, Banacha 1B, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Piechal
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology CePT, Banacha 1B, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Kamilla Blecharz-Klin
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology CePT, Banacha 1B, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Konstantia Graikou
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Chemistry of Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, University of Athens, Zografou, 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioanna Chinou
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Chemistry of Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, University of Athens, Zografou, 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Ewa Widy-Tyszkiewicz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology CePT, Banacha 1B, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
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15
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El-Ashmawy IM, Bayad AE. Folic Acid and Grape Seed Extract Prevent Azathioprine-induced Fetal Malformations and Renal Toxicity in Rats. Phytother Res 2016; 30:2027-2035. [PMID: 27561814 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Revised: 07/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Azathioprine (AZA) is an important drug commonly used in the therapy of the autoimmune system disorders. It induces many hazard effects that restrict its use. The present study was designed to investigate the influence of AZA on the fetal development and renal function and its co-administration with either folic acid (FA) or grape seed extract (GSE). The effects of administration of GSE or FA on AZA toxicity by gavage simultaneously for 4 weeks were studied by determining the changes in kidney histology, the glutathione level (GSH), and lipid per oxidation content as malondialdehyde in the kidney tissue. Additionally, their effects on the fetal development were investigated. Azathioprine induced a renal damage as indicated from the pronounced changes in histological structure, a significant increase in serum urea and creatinine, and malondialdehyde content in the kidney tissue. Meanwhile, the GSH activity was significantly decreased. Co-treatment with GSE significantly minimized the previously mentioned hazard effects of AZA by ameliorating the antioxidant activity. At this point, FA induced a nonsignificant protective activity. The results also revealed that administration of FA or GSE at 6th to 15th day of gestation did not altered fetal development. While, AZA administration clearly disturbed fetal development as indicated from a significant decrease in fetal weights. Furthermore, co-administration of both drugs significantly minimized similarly the hazards of AZA on the fetal development. It may be concluded that GSE and FA are a useful remedies. Maternal administrations of either both are protective agents against AZA-induced fetal malformations. Grape seed extract was more active than FA in potentiating the antioxidative defenses for controlling AZA-induced oxidative renal damages. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim M El-Ashmawy
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah, 51452 P.O.6622, Al-Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aida E Bayad
- Veterinary Services Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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16
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Malekinejad H, Fani M, Shafiee-Roodbari SK, Delkhosh-Kasmaie F, Rezaei-Golmisheh A. Crosstalk between E2f1 and c-Myc mediates hepato-protective effect of royal jelly on taxol-induced damages. Hum Exp Toxicol 2016; 36:626-637. [PMID: 27496854 DOI: 10.1177/0960327116660752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Previous histopathological studies have shown the hepatotoxicity of paclitaxel (TXL). However, there is little known about the molecular pathway(s) of TXL-induced hepatotoxicity. Therefore, this study aimed to uncover the role of two transcription factors in the TXL-induced hepatotoxicity. Moreover, the hepato-protective effect of royal jelly (RJ) on TXL-induced toxicity was investigated. Wistar rats were divided into control and test groups. The test groups along with TXL received various doses of RJ (0, 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg, body weight). Biochemical hepatic functional assays, histopathological studies and hepatic superoxide dismutase level were determined. Additionally, the expression of E2f1 and cellular-myelocytomatosis (c-Myc) at messenger RNA (mRNA) level in the liver was evaluated. The hepatic functional biomarkers showed a significant ( p < 0.05) elevation in the TXL-received animals, while RJ administration for 28 days resulted in a remarkable reduction in TXL-elevated alkaline phosphatase, alanine transaminase and lactate dehydrogenase levels. The TXL-treated animals showed a significant ( p < 0.05) up-regulation of E2f1 and down-regulation of c-Myc at mRNA level, respectively. RJ lowered the expression of E2f1 while enhanced the expression of c-Myc in a dose-dependent manner. Our data suggest the hepato-protective effects of RJ on TXL-induced toxicity, which may attribute to a clear crosstalk between E2f1 and c-Myc as two regulators of liver growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Malekinejad
- 1 Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Islamic Republic of Iran.,2 Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - M Fani
- 2 Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - S Kh Shafiee-Roodbari
- 2 Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - F Delkhosh-Kasmaie
- 3 Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - A Rezaei-Golmisheh
- 4 Department of Embryology and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Islamic Republic of Iran
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17
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Kolayli S, Sahin H, Can Z, Yildiz O, Malkoc M, Asadov A. A Member of Complementary Medicinal Food: Anatolian Royal Jellies, Their Chemical Compositions, and Antioxidant Properties. J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med 2015; 21:NP43-8. [PMID: 26620573 DOI: 10.1177/2156587215618832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Accepted: 11/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated various chemical and antioxidant properties of Anatolian royal jelly samples. Moisture, pH, total protein, 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA) and sugars were analyzed from 18 samples. Total phenolic contents, ferric reducing antioxidant capacity and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity were measured as antioxidant determinants. 10-HDA contents and total protein content of fresh weight ranged between 1.0% and 3.9%, and 11.4% and 15.8%, respectively. The main sugars detected were glucose and fructose. Maltose, trehalose, and melibiose were detected at less than 1.0% in all samples. Lactose, a milk sugar, was detected in only 3 samples, at values between 0.8% and 1.4%. Total henolic content ranged from 91.0 to 301.0 mg gallic acid equivalents/kg fresh weight. Antioxidant activity is due to both to the total phenolic content, proteins and fatty acids of royal jelly. Anatolian royal jelly samples were not different from other royal jelly samples from across the world.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Huseyin Sahin
- Espiye Vocational School, Giresun University, Espiye, Giresun, Turkey
| | - Zehra Can
- Şebinkarahisar Technical Sciences Vocational School, Giresun University, Giresun, Turkey
| | - Oktay Yildiz
- Maçka Vocational School, Karadeniz Technical University, Maçka, Trabzon, Turkey
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18
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Pyrzanowska J, Piechal A, Blecharz-Klin K, Joniec-Maciejak I, Graikou K, Chinou I, Widy-Tyszkiewicz E. Long-term administration of Greek Royal Jelly improves spatial memory and influences the concentration of brain neurotransmitters in naturally aged Wistar male rats. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2014; 155:343-351. [PMID: 24882731 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Revised: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/07/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Royal Jelly (RJ) is a bee-derived product that has been traditionally used in the European and Asian systems of medicine for longevity. RJ has various pharmacological activities that may prevent aging e.g., anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-hypercholesterolemic and anti-hyperglycemic properties. AIM OF THE STUDY To evaluate the behavioral and neurochemical effects of long-term oral, previously chemically analyzed, Greek RJ administration to aged rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS RJ powder was given to 18-month old male Wistar rats (50 and 100mg of powder/kg b.w./day) by gastric gavage for 2 months. The spatial memory was assessed in the water maze and next the level of neurotransmitters, their metabolites and utilization in the selected brain regions were estimated. RESULTS The improvement of memory in rats pretreated with the smaller dose of RJ was observed compared with controls. In biochemical examination mainly the depletion of dopamine and serotonin in the prefrontal cortex along with an increase in their metabolite concentration and turnover were seen. CONCLUSION Better cognitive performance in the old animals using a non-toxic, natural food product in the view of the process of the aging of human population is noteworthy. Our results contribute towards validation of the traditional use of RJ in promoting a better quality of life in old age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Pyrzanowska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University, of Warsaw, Banacha 1b, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Piechal
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University, of Warsaw, Banacha 1b, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kamilla Blecharz-Klin
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University, of Warsaw, Banacha 1b, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ilona Joniec-Maciejak
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University, of Warsaw, Banacha 1b, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Konstantia Graikou
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Chemistry of Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, University of Athens, Zografou, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Ioanna Chinou
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Chemistry of Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, University of Athens, Zografou, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Ewa Widy-Tyszkiewicz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University, of Warsaw, Banacha 1b, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland.
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