Anti-inflammatory effect of bee pollen ethanol extract from Cistus sp. of Spanish on carrageenan-induced rat hind paw edema

Unlocking Quercetin's Neuroprotective Potential: A Focus on Bee-Collected Pollen

In the quest to evade side effects associated with synthetic drugs, mankind is continually exploring natural sources. In recent decades, neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) have surged dramatically compared to other human diseases. Flavonoids, naturally occurring compounds, have emerged as potential preventers of NDD development. Notably, quercetin and its derivatives demonstrated excellent antioxidant properties in the fight against NDDs. Recognizing bee-collected pollen (BP) as a well-established excellent source of quercetin and its derivatives, this review seeks to consolidate available data on the prevalence of this flavonoid in BP, contingent upon its botanical and geographical origins. It aims to advocate for BP as a superb natural source of "drugs" that could serve as preventative measures against NDDs. Examination of numerous published articles, detailing the phenolic profile of BP, suggests that it can be a great source of quercetin, with an average range of up to 1000 mg/kg. In addition to quercetin, 24 derivatives (with rutin being the most predominant) have been identified. Theoretical calculations, based on the recommended dietary intake for quercetin, indicate that BP can fulfil from 0.1 to over 100 % of the requirement, depending on BP's origin and bioaccessibility/bioavailability during digestion.

All That Glitters Is Not Gold: Assessment of Bee Pollen Supplementation Effects on Gastric Mucosa

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of bee pollen supplementation on the levels of enzymes important for gastric mucosal homeostasis, namely cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and a biomarker-asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA)-in the gastric mucosa of Wistar rats. The experimental phase divided the rats into four groups: two control groups, sedentary and active, both not supplemented, and two experimental groups, sedentary and active, supplemented with bee pollen. The results indicated that bee pollen supplementation reduced the levels of COX-1 and elevated iNOS levels, while showing no significant impact on COX-2 levels. These findings do not conclusively support the gastroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of bee pollen on gastric mucosa. However, the supplementation could have resulted in reduced ADMA levels in the physically active supplemented group. Our study does not unequivocally demonstrate the positive effects of bee pollen supplementation on the gastric mucosa, which may be attributed to the specific metabolism and bioavailability of substances within unprocessed, dried bee pollen. Further research should explore the topic of potential therapeutic applications of bee pollen in gastrointestinal health and its interactions with ADMA signaling pathways.

Development of ternary nanoformulation comprising bee pollen-thymol oil extracts and chitosan nanoparticles for anti-inflammatory and anticancer applications

Due to the beneficial nutritional and medicinal characteristics of bee honey and thymol oil as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and antibacterial agents, they have been used since ancient times. The current study aimed to construct a ternary nanoformulation (BPE-TOE-CSNPs NF) through the immobilization of the ethanolic extract of bee pollen (BPE) with thymol oil extract (TOE) into the matrix of chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs). The antiproliferative activity of new NF (BPE-TOE-CSNPs) against HepG2 and MCF-7 cells was investigated. The BPE-TOE-CSNPs showed significant inhibitory activity for the production of the inflammatory cytokines in HepG2 and MCF-7, with p < 0.001 for both TNF-α and IL6. Moreover, the encapsulation of the BPE and TOE in CSNPs increased the efficacy of the treatment and the induction of valuable arrests for the S phase of the cell cycle. In addition, the new NF has a great capacity to trigger apoptotic mechanisms through caspase-3 expression upregulation in cancer cells by two-fold among HepG2 cell lines and nine-fold among MCF-7 which appeared to be more susceptible to the nanoformulation. Moreover, the nanoformulated compound has upregulated the expression of caspase-9 and P53 apoptotic mechanisms. This NF may shed light on its pharmacological actions by blocking specific proliferative proteins, inducing apoptosis, and interfering with the DNA replication process.

Pollen and bee bread expressed highest anti-inflammatory activities among bee products in chronic inflammation: an experimental study with cotton pellet granuloma in rats

Little is known about the effectiveness of bee products on chronic inflammation. In this experimental study, it was aimed to investigate and compare the anti-inflammatory activities of honey, propolis, royal jelly, pollen and bee bread, for the first time in the literature. In the study, 48 Sprague Dawley female albino rats weighing 200 ± 20 g were used and bee products were administered by oral gavage method. Healthy, control, honey, propolis, pollen, royal jelly and bee bread groups were randomized. Chronic inflammation was created by cotton pellet method. For the treatments, 1 g/kg of honey, 300 mg/kg/day of pollen, 100 mg/kg/day of propolis, 500 mg/kg/day of bee bread and 100 mg/kg/day of royal jelly were given for seven days. One week later, cotton pellets were removed, and the pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine levels of the blood samples were measured and compared statistically. It was found that honey, propolis, pollen, bee bread and royal jelly had statistically significant anti-inflammatory activities and significantly reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine levels (p < 0.001). Among the anti-inflammatory cytokines, pollen, bee bread and propolis were found to increase the levels of IL-4, IL-10 and IL-1RA the most. Among the pro-inflammatory cytokines, pollen, bee bread and propolis were the ones that decreased IL-6 and TNF-α levels the most; Pollen, bee bread and honey were found to decrease IL-1β the most (p < 0.001). It was found that all bee products have significant anti-inflammatory activities. The highest anti-inflammatory activity was found with pollen administration, followed by bee bread and propolis.

Bee Pollen as Functional Food: Insights into Its Composition and Therapeutic Properties

Bee pollen is a hive product made up of flower pollen grains, nectar, and bee salivary secretions that beekeepers can collect without damaging the hive. Bee pollen, also called bee-collected pollen, contains a wide range of nutritious elements, including proteins, carbs, lipids, and dietary fibers, as well as bioactive micronutrients including vitamins, minerals, phenolic, and volatile compounds. Because of this composition of high quality, this product has been gaining prominence as a functional food, and studies have been conducted to show and establish its therapeutic potential for medical and food applications. In this context, this work aimed to provide a meticulous summary of the most relevant data about bee pollen, its composition—especially the phenolic compounds—and its biological and/or therapeutic properties as well as the involved molecular pathways.

Inhibition of Skin Pathogenic Bacteria, Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Royal Jelly from Northern Thailand

Royal jelly is a nutritious substance produced by the hypopharyngeal and mandibular glands of honeybees. Royal jelly possesses many attractive and beneficial properties which make it an ideal component in medical and pharmaceutical products. The antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities of royal jelly from honeybees (Apis mellifera) were determined in this study. Moreover, the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the royal jelly were also evaluated. The effects of royal jelly on growth inhibition against skin pathogenic bacteria, including Cutibacterium acnes, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Corynebacterium spp., were investigated by the agar well diffusion method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were further determined by the broth dilution method. The results indicated that royal jelly showed antibacterial activity by inhibiting the growth of Gram-positive pathogenic bacteria, while the effectiveness decreased against Gram-negative bacteria. Interestingly, royal jelly from Lamphun (RJ-LP1), and Chiang Mai (RJ-CM1), presented high inhibitory efficacy against C. acnes, MRSA, and S. aureus within 4 h by a time killing assay. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory properties of royal jelly were tested using RAW264.7 macrophage cells, and results revealed that RJ-LP1 and RJ-CM1 could reduce nitric oxide (NO) production and suppress iNOS gene expression. After testing the antioxidant activity, RJ-CM1 and RJ-CM2 of royal jelly from Chiang Mai had the highest level. Additionally, RJ-CM1 also showed the highest total phenolic and flavonoid content. These findings have brought forward new knowledge of the antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties of royal jelly, which will improve clinical and pharmaceutical uses of royal jelly as an alternative therapy for bacterial infections, and also as a dietary supplement product.

Synergistic Effect of Silk Sericin and Curcumin to Treat an Inflammatory Condition

Inflammation-related diseases are recognized as the major cause of morbidity around the globe. In this study, the anti-inflammatory potential of sericin, curcumin, and their mixture was investigated in vivo and in vitro. Edema was induced via 1% carrageenan and then sericin (0.03, 0.06, 0.09 mg/ml), curcumin (1%, 2%, 3%), and their mixture doses were applied topically. The paw circumference and thickness were measured after 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, and 6-hour post-carrageenan injection. The levels of IL-4 and IL-10 were measured from the serum. In mice fibroblast cells, sericin (20, 40, 60 μg/ml), curcumin (5, 10, 20 μM), and mixture concentrations were applied and then stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Afterward, the cells were used for the analysis of gene expression, and the supernatant was collected for protein expression of IL-1β, IL-4, and IL-10. Our results demonstrated that sericin and curcumin caused a dose-dependent reduction in edema, whereas the mixture-treated group reduced the paw thickness and circumference most significantly (p = .0001). Furthermore, the mixture treatment of carrageenan-inflicted group increased the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines, IL-4 (650.87 pg/ml) and IL-10 (183.14 pg/ml), in comparison to the carrageenan control. The in vitro data revealed that among all the treatment doses, the mixture-treated group has effectively reduced the gene (1.13-fold) and protein (51.9 pg/ml) expression of IL-1β in comparison to McCoy cells stimulated with LPS. Moreover, mixture treatment elevated the expression of IL-4 and IL-10 at genes (4.3-fold and 3.7-fold, respectively) and protein levels (169.33 and 141.83 pg/ml, respectively). The current study reports the enhanced anti-inflammatory effects of the mixture of curcumin and sericin through modulating expressions of interleukins in vitro and in vivo. Thus, natural products (curcumin and sericin)-based formulations have greater potential for clinical investigations.

Bio-Functional Activities of Tuscan Bee Pollen

Bee pollen represents one of the most complete natural foods playing an important role in the diet for its health qualities and therapeutic properties. This work aimed to characterize a Tuscan bee pollen by evaluating its phytochemical profile and the in vitro and ex vivo antioxidant activities. The isolation and taxonomic and functional characterization of yeasts in the sample has been also conducted. Finally, the pollen anti-inflammatory potential has been assessed on a TNFα-inflamed human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line (HT-29). Our results highlighted a good phytochemical composition in terms of polyphenols, flavonoids, flavonols, monomeric anthocyanins, and carotenoids. In addition, we detected good antioxidant activity and radical scavenging capacity by in vitro and ex vivo assays, as well as good antioxidant activity by isolated yeasts. Data showed no cytotoxic effects of bee pollen extracts, with average viability values >80% at each tested dose. Moreover, TNFα treatment did not affect HT-29 viability while upregulating IL-8, COX-2, and ICAM-1 gene expression, otherwise reduced by both doses of bee pollen. In conclusion, our sample represents an interesting functional food and a potential probiotic product, having high phytochemical compound levels and good antioxidant activities, as well as anti-inflammatory effects on the TNFα-inflamed HT-29 cell line.

Protective effect of bee pollen in acute kidney injury, proteinuria, and crystalluria induced by ethylene glycol ingestion in rats

Oxidative stress plays a role in hyperoxaluria-induced kidney injury and crystallization. Bee pollen is a hive product with a high content of antioxidants. The antioxidant content and protective effect of bee pollen extract (BPE) against ethylene glycol (EG) induced crystalluria, and acute kidney injury (AKI) were investigated. The effect of BPE on the EG-induced liver injury and proteinuria was also examined. Ten groups of male Wister rats were treated daily with vehicle, cystone, BPE (100, 250, and 500 mg/kg b.wt.), and group 6-9 treated with EG, EG + BPE (100, 250, and 500 mg/kg b.wt.) and group 10 EG + cystone. The dose of EG was 0.75% v/v, and the dose of cystone was 500 mg/kg b.wt. On day 30, blood and urine samples were collected for analysis. Kidneys were removed for histopathological study. The antioxidant activity of BPE was assessed, and its total phenols and flavonoids were determined. EG significantly increased urine parameters (pH, volume, calcium, phosphorus, uric acid, and protein), blood urea, creatinine, and liver enzymes (P < 0.05). EG decreased creatinine clearance and urine magnesium and caused crystalluria. Treatment with BPE or cystone mitigates EG's effect; BPE was more potent than cystone (P < 0.05). BPE increases urine volume, sodium, and magnesium compared to the control and EG treated groups. BPE reduces proteinuria and prevents AKI, crystalluria, liver injury, and histopathological changes in the kidney tissue caused by EG. BPE might have a protective effect against EG-induced AKI, crystalluria, proteinuria, and stone deposition, most likely by its antioxidant content and activity.

Honey Bee Products: Preclinical and Clinical Studies of Their Anti-inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Properties

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.

Bee pollen increases hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor and suppresses neuroinflammation in adult rats with chronic immobilization stress

Chronic stress is a potential problem associated with anxiety, depression, and cognitive dysfunction. Bee pollen, a powerful antioxidant, has many therapeutic effects. In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of one of the Anatolian bee pollens on depression/anxiety. 24 male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 3 groups as control, stress, and bee pollen + stress. Bee pollen (200 mg/kg/day) was given to rats exposed to physical stress for 10 days. Open field test (OFT) and forced swimming test (FST) were applied to monitor the behavioral changes of the rats. After behavioral tests, the rats were euthanized. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels were measured by ELISA to evaluate neurological and biochemical changes in rat hippocampal tissue. In addition, malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels in the brain were evaluated. According to the behavioral test results, bee pollen reduced anxiety-like behavior but did not affect depression-like behavior. We also found that bee pollen suppressed neuroinflammation while reducing oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in hippocampal tissues. Moreover, bee pollen significantly increased the level of BDNF in the hippocampus. In conclusion, bee pollen reduced oxidative damage and neuroinflammation caused by immobilization stress in rat brain tissue. Therefore, we suggest that bee pollen may be an effective natural compound in alleviating the negative effects caused by immobilization stress.

Rapid and Accurate Approach for Honeybee Pollen Analysis Using ED-XRF and FTIR Spectroscopy

Since honeybee pollen is considered a “perfectly complete food” and is characterized by many beneficial properties (anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-bacterial, etc.), it has begun to be used for therapeutic purposes. Consequently, there is a high need to develop methods for controlling its composition. A thorough bee pollen analysis can be very informative regarding its safety for consumption, the variability of its composition, its biogeographical origin, or harvest date. Therefore, in this study, two reliable and non-destructive spectroscopy methods, i.e., ED-XRF and ATR–FTIR, are proposed as a fast approach to characterize bee pollen. The collected samples were derived from apiaries located in west-central Poland. Additionally, some commercially available samples were analyzed. The applied methodology was optimized and combined with sophisticated chemometric tools. Data derived from IR analyses were also subjected to two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy. The developed ED-XRF method allowed the reliable quantification of eight macro- and micro-nutrients, while organic components were characterized by IR spectroscopy. Principal component analysis, cluster analysis, and obtained synchronous and asynchronous maps allowed the study of component changes occurring dependently on the date and location of harvest. The proposed approach proved to be an excellent tool to monitor the variability of the inorganic and organic content of bee pollen.

Bee Products: A Representation of Biodiversity, Sustainability, and Health

Biodiversity strengthens the productivity of any ecosystem (agricultural land, forest, lake, etc.). The loss of biodiversity contributes to food and energy insecurity; increases vulnerability to natural disasters, such as floods or tropical storms; and decreases the quality of both life and health. Wild and managed bees play a key role in maintaining the biodiversity and in the recovery and restoration of degraded habitats. The novelty character of this perspective is to give an updated representation of bee products’ biodiversity, sustainability, and health relationship. The role of bees as bioindicators, their importance in the conservation of biodiversity, their ecosystem services, and the variety of the bee products are described herein. An overview of the main components of bee products, their biological potentials, and health is highlighted and detailed as follows: (i) nutritional value of bee products, (ii) bioactive profile of bee products and the related beneficial properties; (iii) focus on honey and health through a literature quantitative analysis, and (iv) bee products explored through databases. Moreover, as an example of the interconnection between health, biodiversity, and sustainability, a case study, namely the “Cellulose Park”, realized in Rome (Italy), is presented here. This case study highlights how bee activities can be used to assess and track changes in the quality of agricultural ecosystems—hive products could be valid indicators of the quality and health of the surrounding environment, as well as the changes induced by the biotic and abiotic factors that impact the sustainability of agricultural production and biodiversity conservation in peri-urban areas.

Anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenesis effect of bee pollen methanolic extract using air pouch model of inflammation

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Research on new drugs with a natural source and low side effects is a priority in pharmacology studies. The present study was conducted to investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenesis effects of bee pollen extract in the air pouch model of inflammation.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

To achieve this goal, male rats were moderately anesthetized and then 20 and 10 mL of sterile air were subcutaneously injected into the intrascapular area of the back of the rat on first and third days, respectively. On day 6, inflammation was induced by intrapouch injection of carrageenan. Normal saline in the control group and bee pollen methanolic extract (50, 100, and 200 mg/pouch) were administered at day 6, simultaneously with carrageenan, and then for 2 consecutive days only normal saline and the extracts were injected. Following sacrificing the rats the pouch was opened and the exudate volume, leukocyte accumulation, granulation tissue weight, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin 1beta, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) concentrations were determined 3 days after induction of inflammation. In order to investigate the angiogenesis, the granulation tissue was removed, homogenized in the Drabkin's reagent, and then centrifuged. The supernatant was filtered and the hemoglobin concentration was determined using a spectrophotometer.

RESULTS

Bee pollen extract significantly decreased the exudate volume, leukocyte accumulation, granulation tissue weight, angiogenesis, VEGF, and TNF-α concentration.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

The findings of the current study revealed that bee pollen methanolic extract has an anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenesis effect, which could be attributed to the inhibition of VEGF and TNF-α production in the inflammatory exudates.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Activity of Pollen Extract Collected by Scaptotrigona affinis postica: in silico, in vitro, and in vivo Studies

Bees are of great importance for plant diversity for being an important pollinating agents. Stingless bees such as Scaptotrigona affinis postica, is cultivated largely due to the products offered by it. Pollen is one of these products, which has been highlighted for exhibit various therapeutic properties. Considering the bioactivity of this natural product, this study investigated the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive activities, and elucidated the chemical composition of pollen collected extract by Scaptotrigona affinis postica. Using in vitro assays, the antioxidant potential and inhibitory activity against the COX enzyme from pollen extract was evaluated. Additionally, tests were performed to measure the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities in animal models. In our results, we found that pollen extract showed antioxidant effects and inhibitory activity against the COX enzyme. The in vivo assays showed that the extract acts on the nervous system in local and systemic levels and that the anti-inflammatory activity is due the prostanoids reducing. Chemical analyses recognize 10 molecules in the extract belonging to the polyphenol and flavonoids classes and the computational study suggests that is responsible for the observed results. Thus, it is reported for the first time the biological potential of S. aff. postica pollen extract and we conclude that this bee product can be considered as one source of potential new drugs.

Bee Collected Pollen and Bee Bread: Bioactive Constituents and Health Benefits

Bee products were historically used as a therapheutic approach and in food consumption, while more recent data include important details that could validate them as food supplements due to their bioproperties, which support their future use as medicines. In this review data, data collected from bee pollen (BP) and bee bread (BB) essays will be discussed and detailed for their nutritional and health protective properties as functional foods. Dietary antioxidants intake derived from BP and BB have been associated with the prevention and clinical treatment of multiple diseases. The beneficial effects of BP and BB on health result from the presence of multiple polyphenols which possess anti-inflammatory properties, phytosterols and fatty acids, which play anticancerogenic roles, as well as polysaccharides, which stimulate immunological activity. From the main bioactivity studies with BP and BB, in vitro studies and animal experiments, the stimulation of apoptosis and the inhibition of cell proliferation in multiple cell lines could be one of the major therapeutic adjuvant effects to be explored in reducing tumor growth. Tables summarizing the main data available in this field and information about other bio-effects of BP and BB, which support the conclusions, are provided. Additionally, a discussion about the research gaps will be presented to help further experiments that complete the tree main World Health Organization (WHO) Directives of Efficiency, Safety and Quality Control for these products.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antinociceptive Activity of Pollen Extract Collected by Stingless Bee Melipona fasciculata

The stingless bee, Melipona fasciculata Smith (Apidae, Meliponini), is a native species from Brazil. Their products have high biotechnological potential, however there are no studies about the biological activities of pollen collected by M. fasciculata. In this context, the present study investigated the chemical composition, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic activities of hydroethanolic pollen extracts collected by M. fasciculata in three cities in Maranhão State, Brazil. We verified the antioxidant activity of the extracts and inhibitory activity against the cyclooxygenase enzyme using in vitro assays and in allowed to select the extract with higher efficiency to be used on in vivo assays. In these trials, the selected extract showed high anti-inflammatory activity as well as nociceptive effects at central and peripheral level, suggesting that this extract acts on inhibition of histamine release and decreased synthesis of prostaglandins and the in-silico study suggested that polyphenols and acids fatty acids in the extract may be associated with these activities. The results of the present study report the high biological potential of pollen extract and we conclude that the pollen collected by M. fasciculata can be considered as the object of research for new pharmacological alternatives.

Bee Pollen Extracts Modulate Serum Metabolism in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury Mice with Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Bee pollen (BP) collected from different floras possesses various potential bioactivities, but the mechanism-related research on anti-inflammatory effects is limited. Here, three types of BP originating from Camellia sinensis L. (BP-Cs), Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. (BP-Nn), and Brassica campestris L. (BP-Bc) were assessed using molecular and metabolomics methods to determine their anti-inflammatory effects. The differences in polyphenolic abundance of three types of BP extracts were determined by HPLC-DAD/Q-TOF-MS. In vitro anti-inflammatory effects of three BP extracts were evaluated in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 cells model. BP-Cs extract with the most abundant polyphenols was found to be the most effective in reducing inflammation by downregulating inflammatory-related genes expression and blocking the activation of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways. Polyphenol-rich BP-Cs was further evaluated for their in vivo anti-inflammatory effect in a LPS-induced acute lung injury mouse model. An UPLC-Q-TOF/MS-based metabolomics approach was applied to analyze metabolite changes in mouse serum. Weshowed that the pretreated BP-Cs extract alleviated inflammation and regulated glycerophospholipid metabolism significantly. Our findings provide a foundation for developing and justifying BP as a potential anti-inflammatory ingredient in functional foods or nutraceutical formulations.

Antioxidative and Cardioprotective Effects of Schisandra chinensis Bee Pollen Extract on Isoprenaline-Induced Myocardial Infarction in Rats

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of myocardial infarction (MI). Schisandra chinensis bee pollen extract (SCBPE) possesses powerful antioxidant capacity. This study aimed to further explore the antioxidative and cardioprotective effects of SCBPE on acute MI induced by isoprenaline (ISO) in rats. The rats were intragastrically administrated with SCBPE (600, 1200, or 1800 mg/kg/day) and Compound Danshen dropping pills (270 mg/kg/day) for 30 days, then subcutaneously injected with ISO (65 mg/kg/day) on the 29th and 30th day. Compared with the model group, pretreatment with middle and high doses of SCBPE significantly reduced serum aspartate transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, and creatine kinase activities and increased myocardial superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase activities. The histopathologic aspects showed that pathological heart change was found in the model group and reduced to varying degrees in the SCBPE groups. Moreover, the protein expression of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and Bcl2 in the heart increased in the SCBPE groups, while that of Bax decreased compared to the model group. Besides this, uridine was isolated from S. chinensis bee pollen for the first time. This study could provide a scientific basis for using Schisandra chinensis bee pollen as a functional food for the prevention of MI.

Novel solid-state fermentation of bee-collected pollen emulating the natural fermentation process of bee bread

Structure of lactic acid bacteria biota in ivy flowers, fresh bee-collected pollen (BCP), hive-stored bee bread, and honeybee gastrointestinal tract was investigated. Although a large microbial diversity characterized flowers and fresh BCP, most of lactic acid bacteria species disappeared throughout the bee bread maturation, giving way to Lactobacillus kunkeei and Fructobacillus fructosus to dominate long stored bee bread and honeybee crop. Adaptation of lactic acid bacteria was mainly related to species-specific, and, more in deep, to strain-specific features. Bee bread preservation seemed related to bacteria metabolites, produced especially by some L. kunkeei strains, which likely gave to lactic acid bacteria the capacity to outcompete other microbial groups. A protocol to ferment BCP was successfully set up, which included the mixed inoculum of selected L. kunkeei strains and Hanseniaspora uvarum AN8Y27B, almost emulating the spontaneous fermentation of bee bread. The strict relationship between lactic acid bacteria and yeasts during bee bread maturation was highlighted. The use of the selected starters increased the digestibility and bioavailability of nutrients and bioactive compounds naturally occurring in BCP. Our biotechnological protocol ensured a product microbiologically stable and safe. Conversely, raw BCP was more exposed to the uncontrolled growth of yeasts, moulds, and other bacterial groups.

Neglected Mediterranean plant species are valuable resources: the example of Cistus ladanifer

The combination of genotypic selection, targeted and improved cultivation, and processing techniques for specific applications gives C. ladanifer the potential to be used as a valuable resource in Mediterranean areas with poor agronomic advantages. Cistus ladanifer (rockrose) is a perennial shrub, well adapted to the Mediterranean climate and possibly to upcoming environmental changes. As a sequence to a thorough review on taxonomic, morphological, chemical and competitive aspects of C. ladanifer, the research team focuses here on the economic potential of C. ladanifer: from production to applications, highlighting also known biological activities of extracts and their compounds. The use of this natural resource may be a viable solution for poor and contaminated soils with no need for large agricultural techniques, because this species is highly resistant to pests, diseases and extreme environmental factors. In addition, this species reveals interesting aptitudes that can be applied to food, pharmaceutical, phytochemical and biofuel industries. The final synthesis highlights research lines toward the exploitation of this neglected resource, such as selection of plant lines for specific applications and development of agronomic and processing techniques.

Antioxidant Potential of Propolis, Bee Pollen, and Royal Jelly: Possible Medical Application

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.

Anti-Atherogenic Activity of Polyphenol-Rich Extract from Bee Pollen

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of polyphenol-rich ethanol extract of bee pollen (EEP) on atherosclerosis induced by a high-fat diet in ApoE-knockout mice. EEP was given with feed in two doses of 0.1 and 1 g/kg body mass (BM). The studies have been conducted in a period of 16 weeks. The following factors were estimated: total cholesterol (TC), oxidized low density lipoproteins (ox-LDL), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and angiotensin II (ANG II) in the 5th, 10th, 12th, 14th, and 16th week of the experiment. In the last, i.e., 16th week of the studies the development of coronary artery disease (CAD) was also estimated histopathologically. Supplementing diet with EEP resulted in decreasing TC level. EEP reduced oxidative stress by lowering the levels of ox-LDL, ADMA, ANG II and ACE. EEP protected coronary arteries by significantly limiting the development of atherosclerosis (the dose of 0.1 g/kg BM) or completely preventing its occurrence (the dose of 1 g/kg BM). The obtained results demonstrate that EEP may be useful as a potential anti-atherogenic agent.

Evaluation of Phenolic Compounds in Cistus creticus Bee Pollen from Greece. Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties

This study was carried out to evaluate the antioxidant properties of Greek endemic Cistus creticus L. (rock rose) bee pollen and define its phenolic compounds. In the framework of our scientific studies on Greek bee keeping products, we report herein our research on three Greek bee pollen samples from Cistus. Their pollinic spectra were obtained by Louveaux's quantitative microscopical analysis and it showed that one of them had Cistus sp. (Cistaceae) as abundant pollen (together with low percentage of Brassica sp. (Cruciferae). Throughout the chemical analysis of the extracts, several secondary metabolites of flavonoid structure have been identified as major components. Specifically, quercetin-7-rhamnoside (1), quercetin-3-neohesperidoside (2), kaempferol-3-neohesperidoside (3), myricetin-3-neohesperidoside (4), kaempferol-3-glucoside (5) and quercetin-3-glucoside (6) have been isolated and their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectral evidence. Moreover, the total phenolic and flavonoid content was estimated and the free radical scavenging activity was determined by DPPH and ABTS assays. The antimicrobial activity of the extracts was tested against six Gram-positive and -negative bacteria and three pathogenic fungi, and the butanol extract showed a very interesting broad antimicrobial profile (MIC 1.98•10−3 - 2.98•10−3 mg/ml) against all the assayed microorganisms.

Effects of fermentation by Ganoderma lucidum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae on rape pollen morphology and its wall

This study investigated the mechanism of wall rupture fermentation of the rape bee pollen by Ganoderma lucidum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The enzymatic activities and broken-wall ratios were determined, and the results suggested the involvement of cellulase, protease, and pectinase in the wall rupture fermentation. Among the five substrate inducers, CMCase, protease, and pectinase had the highest enzymatic activities at 23.13 ± 1.09, 63.44 ± 1.35, and 118.61 ± 2.07 U/mL, respectively. The broken-wall ratios of G. lucidum and S. cerevisiae were 85.08 ± 3.92 and 88.31 ± 2.51%, respectively. The wall rupture of rape pollen was closely related to the enzymes of the fermenting species. The wall rupture process was determined through enzyme assay, light microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, and the broken-wall ratios provide further information on the said mechanism. The process follows three steps, namely, removal of coating on the pollen surface, continuous opening of three germinal apertures to allow enzymatic breakdown of the intine, and release of contents from the degradation of the exine.

Acute and sub-chronic toxicity studies of the aqueous extract from leaves of Cistus ladaniferus L. in mice and rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cistus ladaniferus L. (C.ladaniferus) (Cistaceae) is an aromatic shrub native to the Mediterranean region. The leaves are widely used in traditional medicine throughout Morocco for the treatment of various diseases including, diabetes, diarrhea, inflammation, and skin ailments. However, to the best of our knowledge, no systematic study concerning its toxicity profile has been reported.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The study carried out evaluates the potential toxicity of the aqueous extract from leaves of the C.ladaniferus (CL extract) shrub, through the method of acute and sub-chronic oral administration in mice and rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

During the acute toxicity study, male and female mice were orally administrated with CL aqueous extract at single doses of 500, 1000, 2000, 3000 and 5000mg/kg (n = 5/group/sex). Abnormal behavior, toxic symptoms, weight, and death were observed for 14 consecutive days to assess the acute toxicity. During the sub-chronic toxicity study, the aqueous extract was administered orally at doses of 500, 700 and 1000mg/kg (n = 6/group) daily to Wistar rats of both sexes for 90 days. The general behavior of the rats was observed daily, and their body weight was recorded weekly. A urinalysis, biochemical analysis, hematological analysis, macroscopic examination and histopathological examination of several organs were conducted at the end of the treatment period.

RESULTS

During the acute toxicity test, when mice were administered doses of 3000 and 5000mg/kg, the CL extract produced a 10-30% mortality rate, respectively, and induced signs of toxicity. However, no mortality or adverse effect was noted at the doses of 1000 and 2000mg/kg. The median lethal dose (LD50) of the extract was estimated to be more than 5000mg/kg. In the subchronic study, the CL extract induced no mortality or treatment-related adverse effects with regard to body weight, general behavior, relative organ weights, urine, hematological, and biochemical parameters. Histopathological examination of vital organs showed normal architecture suggesting no morphological alterations. Moreover, the CL extracts improved lipid profile and exhibited a significant hypoglycemic effect in all doses tested in rats.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study suggest that treatment with the CL extract for 13 weeks does not appear to produce significant toxicity, except at high dose. Therefore, the use of appropriate levels of the CL extract as a traditional medicine remedies should have a wide margin of safety for its therapeutic use.

UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS-Based Lipidomics Approach To Characterize Lipid Extracts from Bee Pollen and Their in Vitro Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Bee pollen (BP) is collected by honeybees from flower pollen mixed with nectar and its secretions with extensive nutritional and therapeutic properties. Lipids are known to be critical contributors for the therapeutic effects of BP and vary depending on different plant sources; however, lipid profiles of BP are not available. Here, an UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS method was established for comprehensive lipidomics analysis of BP derived from three major nectar plants (Brassica campestris L., Camellia sinensis L., and Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.). A total of nine lipid classes, including phosphatidylcholine (41 species), phosphatidylethanolamine (43 species), phosphatidylglycerol (9 species), phosphatidylserine (10 species), lysophosphatidylcholine (12 species), ceramide (8 species), diglyceride (27 species), triglyceride (137 species), and fatty acids (47 species), were first identified and quantified in the three BPs. In vitro anti-inflammatory activity was also discovered in the lipid extracts of three BPs, which has potential relevance to the abundance of phospholipids and unsaturated fatty acids in BP. Our comprehensive lipidomics profiling and in vitro anti-inflammatory properties of BP provide evidence for its future application.

Genotoxic and Antigenotoxic Activities of Thai Bee Pollen and Its Extracts in Human Lymphocytes by in Vitro Sister Chromatid Exchange Assay

Bee pollen has been used as a food supplement and as a traditional medicine for thousands of years. Our study demonstrated that by in vitro sister chromatid exchange assay, Mimosa pudica crude bee pollen extract (0.005-5.0 μg/mL CE) from Chiangmai, Northern Thailand, increased genotoxicity in human lymphocytes at concentrations of 0.005 and 0.5 μg/mL by 20% and 24% respectively, compared to the RPMI control. Its defatted extract (DE) at 0.005-5.0 μg/mL increased the activities by 24–32% whereas the lipid extract (LE) at 0.00125 μg/mL but not at 0.0125–1.25 μg/mL increased the activities by 25%. Only CE at 5.0 μg/mL induced cytotoxicity. Pretreatments of CE, DE, and LE at 0.5, 5, and 0.00125 μg/mL induced antigenotoxicities against doxorubicin, a potent genotoxic chemotherapeutic agent by 24%, 28%, and 16%, respectively. Their protective mechanisms are feasibly involved with α-tocopherol and phenolic contents such as gallic acid and ferulic acid.

Biological and therapeutic properties of bee pollen: a review

Natural products, including bee products, are particularly appreciated by consumers and are used for therapeutic purposes as alternative drugs. However, it is not known whether treatments with bee products are safe and how to minimise the health risks of such products. Among others, bee pollen is a natural honeybee product promoted as a valuable source of nourishing substances and energy. The health-enhancing value of bee pollen is expected due to the wide range of secondary plant metabolites (tocopherol, niacin, thiamine, biotin and folic acid, polyphenols, carotenoid pigments, phytosterols), besides enzymes and co-enzymes, contained in bee pollen. The promising reports on the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticariogenic antibacterial, antifungicidal, hepatoprotective, anti-atherosclerotic, immune enhancing potential require long-term and large cohort clinical studies. The main difficulty in the application of bee pollen in modern phytomedicine is related to the wide species-specific variation in its composition. Therefore, the variations may differently contribute to bee-pollen properties and biological activity and thus in therapeutic effects. In principle, we can unequivocally recommend bee pollen as a valuable dietary supplement. Although the bee-pollen components have potential bioactive and therapeutic properties, extensive research is required before bee pollen can be used in therapy. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

Anti-inflammatory effects of royal jelly on ethylene glycol induced renal inflammation in rats

Objective:

In this study, anti-inflammatory effects of Royal Jelly were investigated by inducing renal inflammation in rats with the use of ethylene glycol. For this purpose, the calcium oxalate urolithiasis model was obtained by feeding rats with ethylene glycol in drinking water.

Materials and Methods:

The rats were divided in five study groups. The 1^st group was determined as the control group. The rats in the 2^nd group received ethylene glycol (1%) in drinking water. The rats in the 3^rd group were daily fed with Royal Jelly by using oral gavage. The 4^th group was determined as the preventive group and the rats were fed with ethylene glycol (1%) in drinking water while receiving Royal Jelly via oral gavage. The 5^th group was determined as the therapeutic group and received ethylene glycol in drinking water during the first 2 weeks of the study and Royal Jelly via oral gavage during the last 2 weeks of the study.

Results:

At the end of the study, proinflammatory/anti-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-18 levels in blood and renal tissue samples from the rats used in the application were measured.

Conclusion:

The results have shown that ethylene glycol does induce inflammation and renal damage. This can cause the formation of reactive oxygen species. Royal Jelly is also considered to have anti-inflammatory effects due to its possible antiradical and antioxidative effects. It can have positive effects on both the prevention of urolithiasis and possible inflammation during the existing urolithiasis and support the medical treatment.

Polyphenols from Bee Pollen: Structure, Absorption, Metabolism and Biological Activity

Bee pollen constitutes a natural source of antioxidants such as phenolic acids and flavonoids, which are responsible for its biological activity. Research has indicated the correlation between dietary polyphenols and cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticancerogenic, immunostimulating, antianaemic effects, as well as their beneficial influence on osseous tissue. The beneficial effects of bee pollen on health result from the presence of phenolic acids and flavonoids which possess anti-inflammatory properties, phytosterol and linolenic acid which play an anticancerogenic role, and polysaccharides which stimulate immunological activity. Polyphenols are absorbed in the alimentary tract, metabolised by CYP450 enzymes, and excreted with urine and faeces. Flavonoids and phenolic acids are characterised by high antioxidative potential, which is closely related to their chemical structure. The high antioxidant potential of phenolic acids is due to the presence and location of hydroxyl groups, a carboxyl group in the immediate vicinity of ortho-diphenolic substituents, and the ethylene group between the phenyl ring and the carboxyl group. As regards flavonoids, essential structural elements are hydroxyl groups at the C5 and C7 positions in the A ring, and at the C3′ and C4′ positions in the B ring, and a hydroxyl group at the C3 position in the C ring. Furthermore, both, the double bond between C2 and C3, and a ketone group at the C4 position in the C ring enhance the antioxidative potential of these compounds. Polyphenols have an ideal chemical structure for scavenging free radicals and for creating chelates with metal ions, which makes them effective antioxidants in vivo.

Characterization of flavonoid glycosides from rapeseed bee pollen using a combination of chromatography, spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance with a step-wise separation strategy

To identify the structures of flavonoid glycosides in bee pollen collected from rapeseed plants (Brassica napus L.), we utilised an approach that combined liquid chromatography-diode array detector-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (LC-DAD-ESI-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technology with a step-wise separation strategy. We identified four constituents of high purity in rape bee pollen samples: (1) quercetin-3-O-β-D-glucosyl-(2→l)-β-glucoside, (2) kaempferol-3, 4'-di-O-β-D-glucoside, (3) 5, 7, 4'-trihydroxy-3'-methoxyflavone-3-O-β-D-sophoroside and (4) kaempferol-3-O-β-D-glucosyl-(2→l)-β-D-glucoside. This study will also provide useful reference standards for qualification and quantification of four flavonoid glycosides in natural products.

Anti-inflammatory potential of zootherapeutics derived from animals used in Brazilian traditional medicine

CONTEXT

Animals are used for the treatment of diseases caused by inflammatory processes, although few studies evaluate their potential for these purposes.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential of zootherapeutic products derived from vertebrates used in Brazilian traditional medicine.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The species analyzed were Tupinambis merianae, Iguana iguana, Crotalus durissus, Boa constrictor, and Euphractus sexcinctus. The methods used in anti-inflammatory assays were ear edema (topical) and paw (systemic).

RESULTS

With regard to topical anti-inflammatory activity, the fat from T. merianae, C. durissus, I. iguana, B. constrictor, and E. sexcinctus reduced inflammation, while for systemic anti-inflammatory activity, only the fat and the skin of C. durissus, the skin of I. iguana and the fat from B. constrictor reduced inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

Studies should be conducted to evaluate the mechanisms of action for each product that demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity as well as against other inflammatory processes.

Assessment of anti-mutagenic, anti-histopathologic and antioxidant capacities of Egyptian bee pollen and propolis extracts

Bee pollen and propolis are popular, traditional health foods. The objective of the current study was to investigate the anti-mutagenic, anti-histopathologic and antioxidant effects among water extracts of Egyptian bee pollen (WEBP) and brown powder of water-soluble derivative propolis (WSDP) on cisplatin (CDDP) induced hepatic, renal, testicular and genotoxicity in male albino mice (Mus muscullus), in addition to their effects on the oxidant/antioxidant status in the tested organs. Hepatic, renal and testicular dysfunctions were evaluated histologically; while genotoxicity and cytotoxicity were evaluated by the bone marrow chromosomal aberration assay and mitotic index, respectively. Moreover, oxidative stress was explored via determination of lipid peroxidation, catalase activity and the concentration of the reduced form of glutathione. The treatment of mice with WEBP and WSDP at doses 140 and 8.4 mg/kg b. wt./day, respectively for 14 days simultaneously with CDDP (2.8 mg/kg b. wt.) resulted in significant protection. The positive control animals taken CDDP alone showed toxic histological and genetical manifestations (at P < 0.05) accompanied with an elevated content of peroxidized lipid and lowered catalase activity and glutathione concentration in the homogenate of liver, kidney and testis tissues (at P < 0.001). These toxic side effects in all tested organs were greatly ablated with a significant reduction in lipid peroxidation level and elevation in catalase activity and glutathione concentration (P < 0.001) when using both WEBP and WSDP. On the basis of the present assays, Bee pollen appears more potent in exerting an ameliorative effect and this effect was more pronounced in testis.

Organic bee pollen: botanical origin, nutritional value, bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity and microbiological quality

Organic bee pollen (BP, n = 22) harvested from the Douro International Natural Park (DINP, Portugal) was studied. Nine botanical families were found in the mixture of the samples. The water activity and pH ranged 0.21-0.37 and 4.3-5.2, respectively. The BP analyses averaged 67.7% carbohydrates, 21.8% crude protein, 5.2% crude fat and 2.9% ash. The energy ranged from 396.4 to 411.1 kcal/100 g. The principal fatty acid found was linolenic, followed by linoleic acid, palmitic acid and oleic acid. The phenolic and flavonoid contents varied from 12.9 to 19.8 mg of gallic acid equivalents/g of extract and from 4.5 to 7.1 mg of catechin equivalents/g of extract, respectively. The scavenger activity and β-carotene bleaching assays values (EC₅₀) were 3.0 ± 0.7 mg/mL and 4.6 mg/mL ± 0.9 mg/mL, respectively. E. coli, sulphite-reducing Clostridia, Salmonella and S. aureus were not found. Since there are studies indicating appreciable differences among BPs from different regions, the full characterization of BP from diverse origins still appears to be a sound research priority in order to obtain reliable data about this beehive product.