The Systemic Propolis Application Inhibits Radiation-Induced Oral Mucositis Propolis For Oral Mucositis

Abstract

Objectives The current study aimed to investigate the effects of dose-dependent systemic administration of propolis on a radiation-induced buccal mucositis model, which is a challenging side effect of head and neck radiotherapy. Study Design: The study sample comprised seven rats in the control group (G1) and 27 in the three experimental groups. In the study groups, radiotherapy (15Gy) was delivered to the head and neck regions. In addition to radiotherapy, 100 mg/kg propolis in Group 3 and 200 mg/kg propolis in the Group 4 were administered systemically for 14 days. In the harvested buccal mucosa samples, proinflammatory markers (interleukin-6 [IL-6], myeloperoxidase [MPO], tumor-necrosis factor-α [TNF-α]) were analyzed with Enzyme Linked-Immuno-Sorbent Assay method, and tissue samples were stained with Hematoxylin-eosin and classified regarding the inflammation scores. Results The tissue levels of IL-6, MPO, and TNF-α significantly decreased in a dose-dependent manner in experimental groups (p = 0.001, p = 0.016, p = 0.001, respectively). Also, the inflammation scores were highest in Group 2 (p = 0.002), whereas Group 3 and 4 had the lowest (p = 0.012). Conclusion The systemic administration of propolis can decrease the inflammatory responses in irradiated buccal mucosa in a dose-dependent manner. However, further studies are required with various doses and routes to prove effectiveness. Clinical Relevance: Radiation-induced oral mucositis (RIOM) that occurs during head and neck radiotherapy can lead to life-threatening complications. Aqueous propolis extract containing high caffeic acid phenyl ester can prevent the formation of RIOM with its superior anti-inflammatory and free radical scavenging properties.