Assessment of the Mutagenic Activity of Extracts of Brazilian Propolis in Topical Pharmaceutical Formulations on Mammalian Cells In Vitro and In Vivo
2011

Mutagenic Activity of Brazilian Propolis in Topical Formulations

Sample size: 30 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Senedese Juliana Marques, Rodrigues Aline Rafaela, Furtado Michelle Andrade, Faustino Viviane Dias, Berretta Andresa A., Marchetti Juliana M., Tavares Denise Crispim

Primary Institution: Universidade de Franca

Hypothesis

Does the topical application of Brazilian green propolis extract induce mutagenic effects in mammalian cells?

Conclusion

Topical formulations containing different concentrations of green propolis showed no mutagenic effect, but the 3.6% propolis gel was cytotoxic in vitro.

Supporting Evidence

  • Propolis has various biological activities including antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
  • The study evaluated mutagenic potential through chromosomal aberrations and micronuclei analysis.
  • 3-h pulse and continuous treatments were performed in vitro on CHO cells.
  • In vivo tests showed no increase in micronuclei frequency in treated rats.
  • 3.6% propolis gel was found to be cytotoxic in vitro.
  • Topical formulations did not show mutagenic effects under the tested conditions.

Takeaway

This study tested creams with propolis to see if they could harm cells. They found that while the creams didn't cause damage, the strongest one could be harmful to cells in a lab.

Methodology

The study involved in vitro analysis of chromosomal aberrations in CHO cells and in vivo micronucleus tests in Wistar rats using topical formulations with varying concentrations of propolis.

Limitations

The study did not assess long-term effects or systemic absorption of propolis when applied topically.

Participant Demographics

30 male Wistar rats were used for the in vivo tests.

Statistical Information

Statistical Significance

p>0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/ecam/nen049

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