How Does Brazilian Green Propolis Act in Normal and Tumor Cells? Identification of Compounds in or out Monocytes or HEp‐2 Cells

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify propolis compounds after incubation of normal and tumor cells (monocytes and HEp-2 cells, respectively) with Brazilian green propolis, in the lysate and supernatant of cell cultures and within these cells by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Cinnamic acid derivatives were generally localized in the lysate of both cell lines after incubation, suggesting these compounds are actively transported across the membrane into the cytoplasm. Terpenes were also found in the lysate. Artepillin C, in contrast, was localised only in the supernatant. Some constituents were unobservable after incubation, especially in monocytes, suggesting the compounds had been degraded. Our findings shed light on the possible sites of action (intracellular or via a cell membrane protein) and the bioavailability of various constituents of propolis, as well as possible modes of delivery of bioactive constituents.

Comparing the activity of propolis‐loaded nanoparticles or hydroethanolic extract on cytokine production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells

“…Previous findings of our group revealed that green propolis compounds may interact with cell receptors (e.g., TLR-2, TLR-4) and trigger intracellular pathways, leading to biological effects (Búfalo et al, 2014). Farlow et al (2023) identified propolis compounds in the lysate and supernatant of monocytes incubated with propolis. Cinnamic acid derivatives were localized in the lysate, which suggests that these compounds are actively transported across the membrane into the cytoplasm.…”