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The potential of apitherapy, specifically propolis and royal jelly (RJ), as complementary treatments for Parkinson's Disease (PD)
Parkinson's Disease (PD) Overview:
PD is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder primarily characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra.1 This leads to debilitating motor (tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia) and non-motor symptoms (emotional, cognitive, physical, GI issues). Current treatments offer only symptomatic relief and have significant side effects, prompting research into safer, natural alternatives. The pathology of PD is complex, involving:
- Alpha-synuclein accumulation: Misfolded alpha-synuclein forms Lewy bodies, starting in the gut/olfactory mucosa and spreading to the brain via the vagus nerve.
- Oxidative stress: High levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction and neuronal death.
- Inflammation: Activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and microglial/astrocyte activation contribute to neuroinflammation and neuronal damage.
Apitherapy (Bee Products) as a Potential Treatment:
Bee products like propolis and royal jelly are rich in bioactive compounds and have been historically used in traditional medicine. They possess anti-aging properties and a wide range of therapeutic activities.
Propolis:
- A resinous substance collected by bees, with over 300 natural compounds, including flavonoids like caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), chrysin, and pinocembrin (PB).
- Therapeutic properties: Strong antioxidant (free radical-scavenging), anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and anticarcinogenic effects.
- Mechanism in PD (inferred from general properties): Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions suggest it could counteract oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in PD. Pinocembrin, in particular, can cross the blood-brain barrier and has neuroprotective effects.
Royal Jelly (RJ):
- A creamy substance fed to queen bees, rich in water, proteins (especially major RJ proteins, MRJPs), carbohydrates (glucose, fructose), and unique fatty acids (e.g., 10-HDA). It also contains phenols, vitamins, and minerals.
- Therapeutic properties: Anti-aging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, antimicrobial, and antidiabetogenic properties.
- Mechanism in PD (inferred from general properties): Its antioxidant and neuroprotective effects are highly relevant to mitigating PD pathology. Proteins like MRJPs are noted for promoting cell proliferation and survival.
Preclinical Evidence and Animal Models:
Studies on PD animal models (induced by neurotoxins like rotenone, 6-OHDA, and MPTP) have begun to explore the effects of propolis and RJ. These models aim to mimic aspects of PD pathology, such as dopaminergic neuron loss, oxidative stress, and inflammation. The review focuses on these preclinical findings, elaborating on how propolis and RJ might function at a molecular level to counteract PD's progression and symptoms.
The article aims to understand the collective effects and mechanisms of propolis and RJ in PD to inform future clinical trials.