Pinocembrin Isolated from Nigerian Propolis Prevents Elevation of Cytokines Implicated in the Aetiology of Diabetic Retinopathy in Rat Models of Diabetes Mellitus

AbstractIntroduction: Propolis, a bee-produced resin, contains the flavonoid compound pinocembrin, which shows promise for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory applications, though its therapeutic potential remains underexplored. Diabetic retinopathy, a common complication of diabetes, involves retinal inflammation and vascular damage. Prior research indicates Nigerian propolis may have anti-hyperglycemic effects and the ability to lower glycosylated hemoglobin levels.Methods: The study evaluated the protective effects of pinocembrin, extracted from Nigerian propolis, against diabetic retinopathy in a streptozotocin-induced rat model. Diabetes was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats through a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin, resulting in sustained hyperglycemia. The diabetic rats were then administered oral pinocembrin at a dose of ۵۰ mg/kg daily for ۸ weeks.Results: Pinocembrin administration effectively mitigated the elevation of inflammatory mediators, including Interleukin-۱ (IL-۱), Interleukin-۸ (IL-۸), and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α), within the retinal tissues of the treated diabetic rats. Furthermore, pinocembrin enhanced the levels of the antioxidant enzymes Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione Peroxidase (GSH-Px), and also improved glycemic control and glycosylated hemoglobin levels.Conclusion: The results indicate that pinocembrin possesses significant therapeutic value for preventing or mitigating diabetic retinopathy. Its capacity to regulate inflammatory processes and bolster antioxidant defenses underscores its potential as a treatment strategy for managing this vision-threatening complication associated with diabetes mellitus.Keywords: Pinocembrin, Nigerian propolis, diabetic retinopathy, inflammation, antioxidants, streptozotocin-induced diabetesIntroduction.Propolis, a resinous material gathered by honeybees from diverse plant sources, exemplifies nature's remarkable medicinal capacity. Produced by honeybees, propolis is created as bees collect resins, waxes, and other botanical exudates from various plant sources, blending them with enzymes and beeswax. This complex mixture serves a vital role in the hive, acting as a sealant to protect against drafts, maintain hive hygiene, and defend against invading pathogens.

کلیدواژه ها:

Constituent compound ، Propolis ، Antioxidants ، streptozotocin-induced diabetes