Brazilian red propolis synergistically with imipenem modulates immunological parameters and the bactericidal activity of human monocytes against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

Author(s)

Ripari, Nicolas ; Honorio, Mariana da Silva ; Sartori, Arthur Alves ; de Oliveira, Larissa Ragozo Cardoso ; Bastos, Jairo Kenupp ; Sforcin, Jose Mauricio

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology; v. N/A, p. 8-pg., 2024-10-25.

Abstract

Objectives: Propolis is a bee product found all over the globe and has a well-known antibacterial activity. Previous findings of our group revealed that the combination of Brazilian red propolis (BRP) with a lower concentration of imipenem (IPM) exerted a bactericidal action against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in vitro. Here, we aimed at investigating the effects of BRP in combination or not with IPM on human monocytes to assess a possible immunomodulatory action. Methods: Monocyte metabolic activity was analysed by MTT assay, cytokine production (TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10) by ELISA, and the expression of cell markers (TLR-2, TLR-4, HLA-DR, and CD80) by flow cytometry. The bactericidal activity of monocytes over MRSA was determined by colony-forming units' count. Key findings: BRP alone or in combination with IPM exerted no cytotoxic effects on monocytes. BRP downregulated TLR-2 expression and inhibited TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, and IL-6 production, while BRP + IPM stimulated these parameters. BPR alone or in combination increased the bactericidal activity similarly to LPS-activated monocytes. Conclusions: Data indicated the potential of BRP as an anti-inflammatory agent increasing the bactericidal activity of monocytes against MRSA. The combination of BRP + IPM exhibited a stimulatory profile that may be potentially useful in treating patients with MRSA infection. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/04138-8 - Attainment of chemical, analytical, biological, pharmacological and technological studies to fill the gaps on the development of Brazilian propolis sector
• Grantee: Jairo Kenupp Bastos
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants