1
|
Rodrigues Esperandim T, Barcelos Ribeiro A, Silva Squarisi I, Teixeira Marcos de Souza L, Olimpio de Souza T, Oliveira Acésio N, Ferreira Conceição Santos M, Kenupp Bastos J, Ricardo Ambrósio S, Crispim Tavares D. Toxicological and chemoprevention studies of Brazilian brown propolis from Araucaria sp. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2023; 86:791-802. [PMID: 37592437 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2023.2243976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Brazilian brown propolis (BBP) is a natural product derived predominantly from the south region of Brazil, where Araucaria forests are dominant. Despite its potential as a source of bioactive compounds with leishmanicidal, anti-inflammatory, nociceptive, and antimicrobial properties, BBP has not been comprehensively studied compared to green propolis. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the safety and chemopreventive potential of BBP. The cytotoxicity attributed to BBP was assessed using two different assays, while the Salmonella/microsome assay was employed to evaluate mutagenicity. The acute toxicity attributed to BBP was determined using a zebrafish model, while the chemopreventive potential was investigated utilizing Chinese hamster lung (V79) cell lines. Data demonstrated that BBP exerted cytotoxic effects at concentrations greater than or equal to 10 µg/ml and did not exhibit mutagenicity in Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98 and TA100. However, at the highest concentration tested (4000 µg/plate), BBP induced a significant increase in revertant colonies in S. typhimurium TA102 strain. The LC50 equivalent to 8.83 mg/L was obtained in the acute toxicity evaluation in zebrafish. BBP also showed antigenotoxic effect by significantly reducing chromosomal damage induced by the mutagen doxorubicin in V79 cell cultures at a concentration of 2.5 μg/ml. Compared to Brazilian green and red propolis, BBP exhibited greater toxicity. On the other hand, at lower concentrations, BBP displayed chemopreventive potential, which may be associated with the antioxidant capacity of the extract. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the biological properties and potential applications of BBP in treating various diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Arthur Barcelos Ribeiro
- University of Franca, Av. Dr. Armando Salles Oliveira, 201, 14.404-600 Franca, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Iara Silva Squarisi
- University of Franca, Av. Dr. Armando Salles Oliveira, 201, 14.404-600 Franca, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Thiago Olimpio de Souza
- University of Franca, Av. Dr. Armando Salles Oliveira, 201, 14.404-600 Franca, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nathália Oliveira Acésio
- University of Franca, Av. Dr. Armando Salles Oliveira, 201, 14.404-600 Franca, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Jairo Kenupp Bastos
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sérgio Ricardo Ambrósio
- University of Franca, Av. Dr. Armando Salles Oliveira, 201, 14.404-600 Franca, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Denise Crispim Tavares
- University of Franca, Av. Dr. Armando Salles Oliveira, 201, 14.404-600 Franca, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hossain R, Quispe C, Khan RA, Saikat ASM, Ray P, Ongalbek D, Yeskaliyeva B, Jain D, Smeriglio A, Trombetta D, Kiani R, Kobarfard F, Mojgani N, Saffarian P, Ayatollahi SA, Sarkar C, Islam MT, Keriman D, Uçar A, Martorell M, Sureda A, Pintus G, Butnariu M, Sharifi-Rad J, Cho WC. Propolis: An update on its chemistry and pharmacological applications. Chin Med 2022; 17:100. [PMID: 36028892 PMCID: PMC9412804 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-022-00651-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Propolis, a resinous substance produced by honeybees from various plant sources, has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine for several purposes all over the world. The precise composition of propolis varies according to plant source, seasons harvesting, geography, type of bee flora, climate changes, and honeybee species at the site of collection. This apiary product has broad clinical applications such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, analgesic, antidepressant, and anxiolytic as well asimmunomodulatory effects. It is also well known from traditional uses in treating purulent disorders, improving the wound healing, and alleviating many of the related discomforts. Even if its use was already widespread since ancient times, after the First and Second World War, it has grown even more as well as the studies to identify its chemical and pharmacological features, allowing to discriminate the qualities of propolis in terms of the chemical profile and relative biological activity based on the geographic place of origin. Recently, several in vitro and in vivo studies have been carried out and new insights into the pharmaceutical prospects of this bee product in the management of different disorders, have been highlighted. Specifically, the available literature confirms the efficacy of propolis and its bioactive compounds in the reduction of cancer progression, inhibition of bacterial and viral infections as well as mitigation of parasitic-related symptoms, paving the way to the use of propolis as an alternative approach to improve the human health. However, a more conscious use of propolis in terms of standardized extracts as well as new clinical studies are needed to substantiate these health claims.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajib Hossain
- Department of Pharmacy, Life Science Faculty, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj, Dhaka, 8100, Bangladesh
| | - Cristina Quispe
- Facultad de Ciencias de La Salud, Universidad Arturo Prat, Avda. Arturo Prat 2120, 1110939, Iquique, Chile
| | - Rasel Ahmed Khan
- Pharmacy Discipline, Life Science School, Khulna University, Khulna, 9280, Bangladesh
| | - Abu Saim Mohammad Saikat
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj, 8100, Bangladesh
| | - Pranta Ray
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Damira Ongalbek
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 050040, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Balakyz Yeskaliyeva
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 050040, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Divya Jain
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Banasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan, 304022, India
| | - Antonella Smeriglio
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences (ChiBioFarAm), University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d'Alcontres 31, 98166, Messina, Italy.
| | - Domenico Trombetta
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences (ChiBioFarAm), University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d'Alcontres 31, 98166, Messina, Italy
| | - Roghayeh Kiani
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Farzad Kobarfard
- Phytochemistry Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Naheed Mojgani
- Department of Biotechnology, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Parvaneh Saffarian
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Abdulmajid Ayatollahi
- Phytochemistry Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Pharmacognosy and Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Chandan Sarkar
- Department of Pharmacy, Life Science Faculty, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj, Dhaka, 8100, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Torequl Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, Life Science Faculty, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj, Dhaka, 8100, Bangladesh
| | - Dılhun Keriman
- Food Processing Department, Vocational School of Technical Sciences, Bingöl University, Bingöl, Turkey
| | - Arserim Uçar
- Food Processing Department, Vocational School of Technical Sciences, Bingöl University, Bingöl, Turkey.
| | - Miquel Martorell
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, and Centre for Healthy Living, University of Concepción, Concepción, Chile. .,Universidad de Concepción, Unidad de Desarrollo Tecnológico, UDT, 4070386, Concepción, Chile.
| | - Antoni Sureda
- Research Group on Community Nutrition and Oxidative Stress, Laboratory of Physical Activity Sciences, and CIBEROBN - Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, CB12/03/30038, University of Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
| | - Gianfranco Pintus
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences and Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, 22272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Monica Butnariu
- Chemistry & Biochemistry Discipline, University of Life Sciences King Mihai I from Timisoara, Calea Aradului 119, 300645, Timis, Romania
| | - Javad Sharifi-Rad
- Phytochemistry Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - William C Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Silva H, Francisco R, Saraiva A, Francisco S, Carrascosa C, Raposo A. The Cardiovascular Therapeutic Potential of Propolis-A Comprehensive Review. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10010027. [PMID: 33406745 PMCID: PMC7823408 DOI: 10.3390/biology10010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Propolis, also described as bee glue, is a natural component made up of a resinous mixture of honeybee compounds from multiple botanical sources. The literature has demonstrated a variety of medicinal properties attributed to propolis due to its chemical complexity. However, the positive effects of propolis on cardiovascular health have gained little coverage. Therefore, we aimed to provide an accurate and up-to-date review of the main cardiovascular health benefits of propolis. In particular, we intend to establish the key varieties of propolis and pharmacological compounds with the therapeutic effects that are most encouraging, as well as the physiological processes by which those advantages are accomplished. The Brazilian green and red varieties reveal the greatest number of beneficial activities among the varieties of propolis studied. While much of the cardiovascular beneficial effects appear to derive from the cumulative actions of several compounds working via multiple signaling mechanisms, some individual compounds that may enhance the existing therapeutic arsenal have also shown significant results. It is also worth exploring the prospect of using propolis as food supplements. Abstract Owing to its chemical richness, propolis has a myriad of therapeutic properties. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first comprehensive review paper on propolis to focus exclusively on its major effects for cardiovascular health. The propolis compound varieties with the most promising therapeutic benefits and their respective physiological mechanisms will be discussed. Propolis displays an anti-atherosclerotic activity, attained through modulation of the plasma lipid profile and through stabilization of the fatty plaque by inhibiting macrophage apoptosis, vascular smooth muscle proliferation and metalloproteinase activity. The antihypertensive effects of propolis probably arise through the combination of several mechanisms, including the suppression of catecholamine synthesis, stimulation of endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation and vascular anti-inflammatory activity. The anti-hemostatic activity of propolis is attributed to the inhibition of platelet plug formation and antifibrinolytic activity. By inhibiting the secretion of proangiogenic factors, propolis suppresses endothelial cell migration and tubulogenesis, exerting antiangiogenic activity. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities are responsible for protection against vascular endothelial and cardiomyocyte dysfunction, mostly by the prevention of oxidative stress. Among the reviewed propolis varieties, the Brazilian green and red varieties show the largest number of beneficial activities. Further research, especially preclinical, should be conducted to assess the cardiovascular benefits of the given varieties with different compositions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henrique Silva
- Informetrics Research Group, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City 758307, Vietnam
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City 758307, Vietnam
- Correspondence: (H.S.); (A.R.)
| | - Rafaela Francisco
- Pharmacological Sciences Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av Prof Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal;
| | - Ariana Saraiva
- Department of Animal Pathology and Production, Bromatology and Food Technology, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña s/n, 35413 Arucas, Spain; (A.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Simone Francisco
- Faculty of Medicine, Nutrition Lab—Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal;
| | - Conrado Carrascosa
- Department of Animal Pathology and Production, Bromatology and Food Technology, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña s/n, 35413 Arucas, Spain; (A.S.); (C.C.)
| | - António Raposo
- CBIOS (Research Center for Biosciences and Health Technologies), Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal
- Correspondence: (H.S.); (A.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ebiloma GU, Ichoron N, Siheri W, Watson DG, Igoli JO, De Koning HP. The Strong Anti-Kinetoplastid Properties of Bee Propolis: Composition and Identification of the Active Agents and Their Biochemical Targets. Molecules 2020; 25:E5155. [PMID: 33167520 PMCID: PMC7663965 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25215155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The kinetoplastids are protozoa characterized by the presence of a distinctive organelle, called the kinetoplast, which contains a large amount of DNA (kinetoplast DNA (kDNA)) inside their single mitochondrion. Kinetoplastids of medical and veterinary importance include Trypanosoma spp. (the causative agents of human and animal African Trypanosomiasis and of Chagas disease) and Leishmania spp. (the causative agents of the various forms of leishmaniasis). These neglected diseases affect millions of people across the globe, but drug treatment is hampered by the challenges of toxicity and drug resistance, among others. Propolis (a natural product made by bees) and compounds isolated from it are now being investigated as novel treatments of kinetoplastid infections. The anti-kinetoplastid efficacy of propolis is probably a consequence of its reported activity against kinetoplastid parasites of bees. This article presents a review of the reported anti-kinetoplastid potential of propolis, highlighting its anti-kinetoplastid activity in vitro and in vivo regardless of geographical origin. The mode of action of propolis depends on the organism it is acting on and includes growth inhibition, immunomodulation, macrophage activation, perturbation of the cell membrane architecture, phospholipid disturbances, and mitochondrial targets. This gives ample scope for further investigations toward the rational development of sustainable anti-kinetoplastid drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Godwin U. Ebiloma
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough TS1 3BX, UK;
| | - Nahandoo Ichoron
- Phytochemistry Research Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Agriculture, Makurdi 2373, Nigeria; (N.I.) (J.O.I.)
| | - Weam Siheri
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XQ, UK; (W.S.), (D.G.W.)
| | - David G. Watson
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XQ, UK; (W.S.), (D.G.W.)
| | - John O. Igoli
- Phytochemistry Research Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Agriculture, Makurdi 2373, Nigeria; (N.I.) (J.O.I.)
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XQ, UK; (W.S.), (D.G.W.)
| | - Harry P. De Koning
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Alenezi SS, Natto MJ, Igoli JO, Gray AI, Fearnley J, Fearnley H, de Koning HP, Watson DG. Novel flavanones with anti-trypanosomal activity isolated from Zambian and Tanzanian propolis samples. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2020; 14:201-207. [PMID: 33160277 PMCID: PMC7649109 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2020.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
A bioassay-guided phytochemical investigation of propolis samples from Tanzania and Zambia that screened for activity against Trypanosoma brucei has led to the isolation of two novel flavanones with promising antitrypanosomal activity. The compounds were characterized based on their spectral and physical data and identified as 6-(1,1-dimethylallyl) pinocembrin and 5-hydroxy-4″,4″-dimethyl-5″-methyl-5″-H-dihydrofuranol [2″,3″,6,7] flavanone. The two compounds, together with the propolis extracts and fractions, were assayed against a standard drug-sensitive strain of T. b. brucei (s427 wild-type), multi-drug resistant-resistant T. b. brucei (B48), drug-sensitive T. congolense (1L300) and a derived diminazene-resistant T. congolense strain (6C3), and for toxicity against U947 human cells and RAW 246.7 murine cells. Activity against T. b. brucei was higher than against T. congolense. Interestingly, the Tanzanian propolis extract was found to be more active than its fractions and purified compounds in these assays, with an IC50 of 1.20 μg/mL against T. b. brucei. The results of a cytotoxicity assay showed that the propolis extracts were less toxic than the purified compounds with mean IC50 values > 165.0 μg/mL. Two samples of propolis from East Africa display good activity against Trypanosoma brucei and T. congolense. Activity against both wild type and pentamidine and diminazene resistant forms. Two novel flavonoids and one known flavonoid were isolated from Tanzanian and Zambian propolis samples and characterized. Pure isolated compounds not much more active than crude extracts. Repeated observation of anti-protozoal activity shows the importance of propolis indefending the hive against infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samya S Alenezi
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, 161 Cathedral Street, G40RE, Glasgow, UK
| | - Manal J Natto
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences University of Glasgow, Sir Graeme Davies Building 120 University Place, G12 8TA, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - John O Igoli
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, 161 Cathedral Street, G40RE, Glasgow, UK; Phytochemistry Research Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Agriculture, PMB 2373, Makurdi, Nigeria
| | - Alexander I Gray
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, 161 Cathedral Street, G40RE, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | - Harry P de Koning
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences University of Glasgow, Sir Graeme Davies Building 120 University Place, G12 8TA, Glasgow, Scotland, UK.
| | - David G Watson
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, 161 Cathedral Street, G40RE, Glasgow, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lessons from Exploring Chemical Space and Chemical Diversity of Propolis Components. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21144988. [PMID: 32679731 PMCID: PMC7404124 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21144988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Propolis is a natural resinous material produced by bees and has been used in folk medicines since ancient times. Due to it possessing a broad spectrum of biological activities, it has gained significant scientific and commercial interest over the last two decades. As a result of searching 122 publications reported up to the end of 2019, we assembled a unique compound database consisting of 578 components isolated from both honey bee propolis and stingless bee propolis, and analyzed the chemical space and chemical diversity of these compounds. The results demonstrated that both honey bee propolis and stingless bee propolis are valuable sources for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical development.
Collapse
|
7
|
Alotaibi A, Ebiloma GU, Williams R, Alenezi S, Donachie AM, Guillaume S, Igoli JO, Fearnley J, de Koning HP, Watson DG. European propolis is highly active against trypanosomatids including Crithidia fasciculata. Sci Rep 2019; 9:11364. [PMID: 31388043 PMCID: PMC6684629 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47840-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracts of 35 samples of European propolis were tested against wild type and resistant strains of the protozoal pathogens Trypanosoma brucei, Trypanosoma congolense and Leishmania mexicana. The extracts were also tested against Crithidia fasciculata a close relative of Crithidia mellificae, a parasite of bees. Crithidia, Trypanosoma and Leishmania are all members of the order Kinetoplastida. High levels of activity were obtained for all the samples with the levels of activity varying across the sample set. The highest levels of activity were found against L. mexicana. The propolis samples were profiled by using liquid chromatography with high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and principal components analysis (PCA) of the data obtained indicated there was a wide variation in the composition of the propolis samples. Orthogonal partial least squares (OPLS) associated a butyrate ester of pinobanksin with high activity against T. brucei whereas in the case of T. congolense high activity was associated with methyl ethers of chrysin and pinobanksin. In the case of C. fasciculata highest activity was associated with methyl ethers of galangin and pinobanksin. OPLS modelling of the activities against L. mexicana using the mass spectrometry produced a less successful model suggesting a wider range of active components.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Alotaibi
- University of Strathclyde, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, 161 Cathedral Street, Glasgow, G4 0RE, UK
| | - Godwin U Ebiloma
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Roderick Williams
- IBEHR, School of Health and Life Science, University of the West of Scotland, High Street, Paisley, PA1 2BE, UK
| | - Samya Alenezi
- University of Strathclyde, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, 161 Cathedral Street, Glasgow, G4 0RE, UK
| | - Anne-Marie Donachie
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Selome Guillaume
- IBEHR, School of Health and Life Science, University of the West of Scotland, High Street, Paisley, PA1 2BE, UK
| | - John O Igoli
- University of Strathclyde, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, 161 Cathedral Street, Glasgow, G4 0RE, UK
- Department of Chemistry, University of Agriculture, PMB 2373, Makurdi, Nigeria
| | | | - Harry P de Koning
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK
| | - David G Watson
- University of Strathclyde, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, 161 Cathedral Street, Glasgow, G4 0RE, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Iqbal M, Fan TP, Watson D, Alenezi S, Saleh K, Sahlan M. Preliminary studies: the potential anti-angiogenic activities of two Sulawesi Island (Indonesia) propolis and their chemical characterization. Heliyon 2019; 5:e01978. [PMID: 31372523 PMCID: PMC6656927 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e01978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have previously reported propolis, or its constituents, to inhibit tumour angiogenesis. The anti-angiogenic activity of two Indonesian stingless bee propolis extracts from Sulawesi Island on vascular cells were assessed. Sample D01 was obtained from the outer side of bee hives, while D02 was from the inner side of the same hives. The extracts were profiled by using liquid chromatography coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry. The anti-angiogenic capacity was assessed on HUVECs and placenta-derived pericytes by cell viability, multi-channel wound healing, and CoCl2 based-hypoxia assays. The exact chemical composition has not been confirmed. The most abundant compounds in Indonesian sample D01 seem to be unusual since they do not immediately fall into a clear class. Two of the most abundant compounds have elemental compositions matching actinopyrones. Identification on the basis of elemental composition is not definitive but compounds in D01 are possibly due to unusually modified terpenoids. Sample D02 has abundant compounds which include four related diterpenes with differing degrees of oxygenation and some sesquiterpenes. However, again the profile is unusual. The anti-angiogenic assays demonstrated that D01 elicited a strong cytotoxic effect and a considerable anti-migratory activity on the vascular cells. Although D02 demonstrated a much weaker cytotoxic effect on the cell lines compared to D01, it elicited a substantial protective effect on the pericytes against CoCl2-induced dropout in an experiment to mimic a micro-environment commonly associated with angiogenesis and tumour growth. These results demonstrate modulatory effects of these propolis samples in vascular cells, which requires further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Iqbal
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Tai-Ping Fan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - David Watson
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Samya Alenezi
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Khaled Saleh
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Muhamad Sahlan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
El‐Guendouz S, Lyoussi B, Miguel MG. Insight on Propolis from Mediterranean Countries: Chemical Composition, Biological Activities and Application Fields. Chem Biodivers 2019; 16:e1900094. [DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.201900094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Soukaina El‐Guendouz
- Laboratory of Physiology-Pharmacology-Environmental HealthFaculty of Sciences Dhar El MehrazUniversity Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah Fez, BP 1796 Atlas 30000 Morocco
- Department of Chemistry and PharmacyFaculty of Science and TechnologyMeditBioUniversity of Algarve Campus de Gambelas, MeditBio Faro 8005-139 Portugal
| | - Badiaa Lyoussi
- Laboratory of Physiology-Pharmacology-Environmental HealthFaculty of Sciences Dhar El MehrazUniversity Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah Fez, BP 1796 Atlas 30000 Morocco
| | - Maria G. Miguel
- Department of Chemistry and PharmacyFaculty of Science and TechnologyMeditBioUniversity of Algarve Campus de Gambelas, MeditBio Faro 8005-139 Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Isolation of a Novel Flavanonol and an Alkylresorcinol with Highly Potent Anti-Trypanosomal Activity from Libyan propolis. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24061041. [PMID: 30884752 PMCID: PMC6471328 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24061041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Twelve propolis samples from different parts of Libya were investigated for their phytochemical constituents. Ethanol extracts of the samples and some purified compounds were tested against Trypanosoma brucei, Plasmodium falciparum and against two helminth species, Trichinella spiralis and Caenorhabditis elegans, showing various degrees of activity. Fourteen compounds were isolated from the propolis samples, including a novel compound Taxifolin-3-acetyl-4'-methyl ether (4), a flavanonol derivative. The crude extracts showed moderate activity against T. spiralis and C. elegans, while the purified compounds had low activity against P. falciparum. Anti-trypanosomal activity (EC50 = 0.7 µg/mL) was exhibited by a fraction containing a cardol identified as bilobol (10) and this fraction had no effect on Human Foreskin Fibroblasts (HFF), even at 2.0 mg/mL, thus demonstrating excellent selectivity. A metabolomics study was used to explore the mechanism of action of the fraction and it revealed significant disturbances in trypanosomal phospholipid metabolism, especially the formation of choline phospholipids. We conclude that a potent and highly selective new trypanocide may be present in the fraction.
Collapse
|
11
|
Chemical Diversity and Biological Activity of African Propolis. PROGRESS IN THE CHEMISTRY OF ORGANIC NATURAL PRODUCTS 2019; 109:415-450. [PMID: 31637531 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-12858-6_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Natural remedies have for centuries played a significant role in traditional medicine and continue to be a unique reservoir of new chemical entities in drug discovery and development research. Propolis is a natural substance, collected by bees mainly from plant resins, which has a long history of use as a folk remedy to treat a variety of ailments. The highly variable phytochemical composition of propolis is attributed to differences in plant diversity within the geographic regions from which it is collected. Despite the fact that the last five decades has seen significant advancements in the understanding of the chemistry and biological activity of propolis, a search of the literature has revealed that studies on African propolis to date are rather limited. The aim of this contribution is to report on the current body of knowledge of African propolis, with a particular emphasis on its chemistry and biological activity. As Africa is a continent with a rich flora and a vast diversity of ecosystems, there is a wide range of propolis phytochemicals that may be exploited in the development of new drug scaffolds.
Collapse
|
12
|
El-Tantawy NL, Soliman AF, Abdel-Magied A, Ghorab D, Khalil AT, Naeem ZM, Shimizu K, El-Sharkawy SH. Could Araucaria heterophylla resin extract be used as a new treatment for toxoplasmosis? Exp Parasitol 2018; 195:44-53. [PMID: 30339984 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2018.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide parasitic disease responsible for serious health problems to human. The currently available drugs used for toxoplasmosis treatment showed a limited efficacy and cause serious host toxicity. The in vitro screening for toxoplasmicidal activity of Araucaria heterophylla resin (AHR) extract and its major component 13-epi-cupressic acid (CUP) showed that both AHR (EC50 = 3.90) and CUP (EC50 = 3.69) have high toxoplasmicidal activity in comparison with standard cotrimoxazole (EC50 = 4.28). The antiprotozoal effects of AHR and CUP were investigated against acute and chronic toxoplasmosis using mice models. Two groups of Swiss albino mice were infected by RH Toxoplasma strain intraperitoneally and by Me49 strain orally. Both groups were treated with AHR and CUP in different doses. Their effects were evaluated by survival rate, peritoneal, spleen and liver parasite burdens, brain cyst burden, NO serum level and histopathological lesions. The ultrastructural changes of tachyzoites of acutely infected mice were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). There is an evidence of toxoplasmicidal activity of AHR and CUP in acute and chronic experimental toxoplasmosis. In the acute model, mice treated with AHR and CUP showed prolonged survival rates, a significant decrease in the parasite density in peritoneal lavage and pathological insult in both liver and spleen compared with that of untreated ones. SEM results denote evident morphological alterations of treated tachyzoites. In chronic experimental toxoplasmosis, AHR and CUP treated groups could significantly reduce brain cyst burden by 96.05% and 98.02% respectively. This study indicates that AHR and CUP showed potent toxoplasmicidal activities experimentally and could be used as a potential natural nontoxic agent for treatment of toxoplasmosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nora L El-Tantawy
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
| | - Amal F Soliman
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Aida Abdel-Magied
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Doaa Ghorab
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Ashraf T Khalil
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Zein M Naeem
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Kuniyoshi Shimizu
- Division of Systematic Forest and Forest Products Sciences, Department of Agro-Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Graduate School of Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8581, Japan
| | - Saleh H El-Sharkawy
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Afolayan M, Srivedavyasasri R, Asekun OT, Familoni OB, Orishadipe A, Zulfiqar F, Ibrahim MA, Ross SA. Phytochemical study of Piliostigma thonningii, a medicinal plant grown in Nigeria. Med Chem Res 2018; 27:2325-2330. [PMID: 30319238 PMCID: PMC6181138 DOI: 10.1007/s00044-018-2238-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Piliostigma thonningii (Schumach.) Milne-Redhead. (Leguminosae) is used for various medicinal purposes in African countries. Phytochemical investigation of P. thonningii yielded two compounds newly isolated from natural sources, 2β-methoxyclovan-9α-ol (1), and methyl-ent-3β-hydroxylabd-8(17)-en-15-oate (2), along with 14 known compounds (3-16). Compounds 1 and 4 (alepterolic acid) showed potential selectivity towards Trypanosoma brucei brucei with IC50 7.89 and 3.42 μM, respectively. Compound 2 showed activity towards T. brucei and Leishmania donovani Amastigote with IC50 3.84 and 7.82 μM, respectively. The structure activity relationship (SAR) of the isolated metabolites suggested that hydroxylation at C-2 enhances the antiprotozoal activity towards T. brucei in sesquiterpenes 1 and 3. Similarly hydroxylation at C-3 in labdane diterpenes elevates the antiprotozoal activity towards T. brucei.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Afolayan
- National Center for Natural Products Research, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
- Chemistry Advanced Research Center, Sheda Science and Technology Complex, PMB 186 Garki Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | - Abayomi Orishadipe
- Chemistry Advanced Research Center, Sheda Science and Technology Complex, PMB 186 Garki Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Fazila Zulfiqar
- National Center for Natural Products Research, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Mohamed A. Ibrahim
- National Center for Natural Products Research, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
- Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, National Research Centre, 12622Dokki, Giza, Egypt
| | - Samir A Ross
- National Center for Natural Products Research, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Division of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Investigation of the anti-TB potential of selected propolis constituents using a molecular docking approach. Sci Rep 2018; 8:12238. [PMID: 30116003 PMCID: PMC6095843 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-30209-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Human tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, is the leading bacterial killer disease worldwide and new anti-TB drugs are urgently needed. Natural remedies have long played an important role in medicine and continue to provide some inspiring templates for drug design. Propolis, a substance naturally-produced by bees upon collection of plant resins, is used in folk medicine for its beneficial anti-TB activity. In this study, we used a molecular docking approach to investigate the interactions between selected propolis constituents and four ‘druggable’ proteins involved in vital physiological functions in M. tuberculosis, namely MtPanK, MtDprE1, MtPknB and MtKasA. The docking score for ligands towards each protein was calculated to estimate the binding free energy, with the best docking score (lowest energy value) indicating the highest predicted ligand/protein affinity. Specific interactions were also explored to understand the nature of intermolecular bonds between the most active ligands and the protein binding site residues. The lignan (+)-sesamin displayed the best docking score towards MtDprE1 (−10.7 kcal/mol) while the prenylated flavonoid isonymphaeol D docked strongly with MtKasA (−9.7 kcal/mol). Both compounds showed docking scores superior to the control inhibitors and represent potentially interesting scaffolds for further in vitro biological evaluation and anti-TB drug design.
Collapse
|
15
|
Alvarez-Suarez JM. The Chemical and Biological Properties of Propolis. BEE PRODUCTS - CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES 2017. [PMCID: PMC7123330 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-59689-1_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
|
16
|
Abstract
Propolis is one of the complex, but valuable, bio-sources for discovering therapeutic compounds. Diterpenes are organic compounds composed of four isoprene units and are known for their biological and pharmacological characteristics, such as antibacterial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory activities. Recently, advancements have been made in the development of antibacterial and anticancer leads from propolis-isolated diterpenes, and scrutiny of these compounds is being pursued. Thus, this review covers the progress in this arena, with a focus on the chemistry and biological activities of propolis diterpenes. It is anticipated that important information, in a comprehensive and concise manner, will be delivered here for better understanding of natural product drug discovery research.
Collapse
|
17
|
Simone-Finstrom M, Borba RS, Wilson M, Spivak M. Propolis Counteracts Some Threats to Honey Bee Health. INSECTS 2017; 8:E46. [PMID: 28468244 PMCID: PMC5492060 DOI: 10.3390/insects8020046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Honey bees (Apis mellifera) are constantly dealing with threats from pathogens, pests, pesticides and poor nutrition. It is critically important to understand how honey bees' natural immune responses (individual immunity) and collective behavioral defenses (social immunity) can improve bee health and productivity. One form of social immunity in honey bee colonies is the collection of antimicrobial plant resins and their use in the nest architecture as propolis. We review research on the constitutive benefits of propolis on the honey bee immune system, and its known therapeutic, colony-level effects against the pathogens Paenibacillus larvae and Ascosphaera apis. We also review the limited research on the effects of propolis against other pathogens, parasites and pests (Nosema, viruses, Varroa destructor, and hive beetles) and how propolis may enhance bee products such as royal jelly and honey. Although propolis may be a source of pesticide contamination, it also has the potential to be a detoxifying agent or primer of detoxification pathways, as well as increasing bee longevity via antioxidant-related pathways. Throughout this paper, we discuss opportunities for future research goals and present ways in which the beekeeping community can promote propolis use in standard colonies, as one way to improve and maintain colony health and resiliency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Simone-Finstrom
- USDA-ARS Honey Bee Breeding, Genetics, and Physiology Laboratory, Baton Rouge, LA 70820, USA.
| | - Renata S Borba
- Centre for High-Throughput Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
- Beaverlodge Research Farm, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Beaverlodge, AB T0H 0C0, Canada.
| | - Michael Wilson
- Center for Drug Design, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55018, USA.
| | - Marla Spivak
- Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Chemical and Antimicrobial Profiling of Propolis from Different Regions within Libya. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0155355. [PMID: 27195790 PMCID: PMC4873177 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0155355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracts from twelve samples of propolis collected from different regions of Libya were tested for their activity against Trypanosoma brucei, Leishmania donovani, Plasmodium falciparum, Crithidia fasciculata and Mycobacterium marinum and the cytotoxicity of the extracts was tested against mammalian cells. All the extracts were active to some degree against all of the protozoa and the mycobacterium, exhibiting a range of EC50 values between 1.65 and 53.6 μg/ml. The toxicity against mammalian cell lines was only moderate; the most active extract against the protozoan species, P2, displayed an IC50 value of 53.2 μg/ml. The extracts were profiled by using liquid chromatography coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry. The data sets were extracted using m/z Mine and the accurate masses of the features extracted were searched against the Dictionary of Natural Products (DNP). A principal component analysis (PCA) model was constructed which, in combination with hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), divided the samples into five groups. The outlying groups had different sets of dominant compounds in the extracts, which could be characterised by their elemental composition. Orthogonal partial least squares (OPLS) analysis was used to link the activity of each extract against the different micro-organisms to particular components in the extracts.
Collapse
|
19
|
Sforcin JM. Biological Properties and Therapeutic Applications of Propolis. Phytother Res 2016; 30:894-905. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 233] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Revised: 01/18/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- José M. Sforcin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology; Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, UNESP; 18618-970 Botucatu SP Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Pulivarthi D, Steinberg KM, Monzote L, Piñón A, Setzer WN. Antileishmanial Activity of Compounds Isolated from Sassafras albidum. Nat Prod Commun 2015. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x1501000723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by Leishmania parasitic protozoa, which currently lacks efficient treatment. Natural products have shown promise as a potential source for antiprotozoal drugs. This work focuses on the antileishmanial potential of Sassafras albidum (Lauraceae) bark extract. The crude bark extract of S. albidum showed excellent antileishmanial activity with an IC50 value less than 12.5 μg/mL against promastigotes of L. amazonensis. The chloroform stem bark extract of S. albidum was subjected to preparative column chromatography. Five compounds were isolated, purified by recrystallization, and identified as sesamin, spinescin, β-sitosterol, hexatriacontanal, and 1-triacontanol. Antileishmanial and cytotoxic screening were performed on these compounds. Sesamin exhibited the best activity against L. amazonensis with an IC50 of 15.8 μg/mL and was not cytotoxic to mouse macrophage cells ( CC50 > 100 μg/mL).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Divya Pulivarthi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA
| | - Kelly Marie Steinberg
- Department of Chemistry, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA
| | - Lianet Monzote
- Parasitology Department, Institute of Tropical Medicine “Pedro Kouri”, 10400 Havana, Cuba
| | - Abel Piñón
- Parasitology Department, Institute of Tropical Medicine “Pedro Kouri”, 10400 Havana, Cuba
| | - William N. Setzer
- Department of Chemistry, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA
| |
Collapse
|