Biochemical determinations of propolis-treated rats: Effects of different concentrations, extracts and intake period

Abstract

Propolis is a resinous hive product, with several biological and pharmacological properties, such as immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, among others. Our group has been investigating the possible side effects after propolis administration to rats. Thus, this work was carried out in order to analyze the specific activity of some enzymes (aminotransferases, ?-glutamyl transferase, lactate dehydrogenase, amylase), as well as the serum concentration of urea, creatinine and total proteins after propolis administration in some conditions: a) different concentrations of propolis (1, 3 and 6 mg/kg/day); b) different extracts (water and ethanol); c) different intake periods (30, 90 and 150 days). No alterations were seen in the specific activity of such enzymes, or in the serum components. However, urea and creatinine were elevated after treatment with ethanolic extract of propolis (6 mg/kg/day), suggesting possible kidney damage, in these assay conditions. Since humans have used propolis for different proposals, further studies will help to a better understanding of relation propolis-biochemical variables of clinical significance.