Gastroprotective Effect of Geopropolis from Melipona scutellaris Is Dependent on Production of Nitric Oxide and Prostaglandin

Author(s)

Ribeiro-Junior, Jeronimo Aparecido ; Franchin, Marcelo ; Cavallini, Miriam Elias ; Denny, Carina ; de Alencar, Severino Matias ; Ikegaki, Masaharu ; Rosalen, Pedro Luiz

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine; v. 2015, p. 5-pg., 2015-01-01.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the gastroprotective activity of ethanolic extract of geopropolis (EEGP) from Melipona scutellaris and to investigate the possible mechanisms of action. The gastroprotective activity of the EEGP was evaluated using model ulcer induced by ethanol. To elucidate the possible mechanisms of action, we investigated the involvement of the nonprotein sulfhydryl (NP-SH) groups, nitric oxide and prostaglandins. In addition, the antisecretory activity of EEGP was also evaluated by pylorus ligated model. The EEGP orally administrated (300 mg/kg) reduced the ulcerative lesions induced by the ethanol (P < 0.05). Regarding the mechanism of action, the prior administration of nitric oxide and prostaglandins antagonists suppressed the activity of gastroprotective EEGP (P < 0.05). On the other hand the gastroprotective activity of EEGP was kept in the group pretreated with (t)he antagonist of the NP-SH groups; furthermore the antisecretory activity was not significant (P > 0.05). These results support the alternative medicine use of geopropolis as gastroprotective and the activities observed show to be related to nitric oxide and prostaglandins production. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 10/20214-7 - Identification and chemical characterization of bioactive and nanostructured fraction of geopropolis (Melipona scutellaris) and their related pharmacological activities
• Grantee: Pedro Luiz Rosalen
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants