Effects of Brazilian Green Propolis on Trypanosoma cruzi
Author Information
Author(s): Kelly Salomão, Eniuce M. de Souza, Andrea Henriques-Pons, Helene S. Barbosa, Solange L. de Castro
Primary Institution: Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz
Hypothesis
The study investigates the effects of Brazilian green propolis ethanolic extract (Et-Bra) on Trypanosoma cruzi and its potential as a treatment for Chagas disease.
Conclusion
Brazilian green propolis extract can inhibit the proliferation of Trypanosoma cruzi and may increase the survival of infected mice without causing toxicity.
Supporting Evidence
- Et-Bra reduced parasitemia in infected mice.
- Et-Bra did not induce hepatic, muscular lesion or renal toxicity.
- IC50 for inhibition of amastigote proliferation was 8.5 ± 1.8 μg mL−1.
- Et-Bra caused significant morphological alterations in T. cruzi.
- Treatment with Et-Bra increased survival rates in infected mice.
Takeaway
This study shows that a natural substance from bees, called Brazilian green propolis, can help fight a parasite that causes a disease called Chagas without hurting the animals it was tested on.
Methodology
The study involved in vitro tests on Trypanosoma cruzi and in vivo tests on infected mice treated with varying doses of Et-Bra.
Limitations
The study did not determine the long-term effects of Et-Bra treatment on parasitemia levels.
Participant Demographics
Male albino Swiss mice, aged 6–8 weeks, weighing 18–20 g.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website