Exploring the therapeutic potential of propolis in managing diabetes: A preclinical study
- Author:
Hannah Shi Tiang
1
;
Lingling Qin
2
;
Tonghuang Hua Liu
2
;
Zhiwei Qi
1
;
Huizhao Qin
3
;
Huelee Yong
4
;
Xuesheng Ma
5
;
Lili Wu
6
Author Information
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords: Propolis; Diabetes mellitus; db/db mice; Protein kinase B; Nuclear factor kappa-B
- From: Journal of Traditional Chinese Medical Sciences 2025;2025(2):165-174
- CountryChina
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Objective:To evaluate the therapeutic potential and underlying mechanisms of action of propolis in db/db mice.
Methods:The chemical composition of propolis was analyzed using UHPLC-MS/MS. Thirty mice, including six wt/wt and 24 db/db mice, were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 6 per group): control, model, metformin (250 mg/kg), low dose propolis (100 mg/kg), and high dose propolis (HDP; 400 mg/kg). Treatments were administered orally for four weeks. Body weight and FBG levels were recorded weekly, and an oral glucose tolerance test was conducted on the 25th day. Serum levels of FIN, GSP, connecting peptide, AST, ALT, HDL, LDL, TG, and TC were quantified using ELISA. Liver histopathology was assessed using H&E and PAS staining. Western blotting was performed to examine the expression levels of NF-κB, phosphorylated NF-κB, IκBα, pIκBα, and AKT in liver tissues.
Results:The top 10 metabolites of propolis were identified in positive and negative ion modes. The HDP group exhibited a significant reduction in FBG levels, body weight, connecting peptide levels, homeostatic model assessment of β-cell function scores, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance scores (all P < .05). GSP levels were significantly reduced in both treatment groups (all P < .001). The HDP group also exhibited a reduction in TC and LDL levels (both P < .05), whereas HDL levels increased in both treatment groups (all P < .05). Liver weight, AST levels, and ALT levels were reduced in both treatment groups (all P < .05). Histological analysis revealed improved liver morphology. Protein analysis demonstrated downregulation of phosphorylated NF-κB and phosphorylated IκB, alongside upregulation of AKT.
Conclusion:Propolis exhibited significant antihyperglycemic effects in db/db mice, potentially by modulating the AKT and NF-κB signaling pathways, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent for diabetes management.
