Preliminary report on the effects of propolis on wound healing in the dental pulp

Research Progress on Therapeutic Effect and Mechanism of Propolis on Wound Healing

Propolis is a kind of reduct collected by bees from various plant sources. Because propolis is a mixture, it has a variety of biological activities, excellent anti-inflammatory and bactericidal effects. Especially in the treatment of infectious wounds, acute wounds, burns, and scalds and promoting wound healing, more and more scientists began to apply it to the research field of wound healing. The standard preparation of propolis combined with other compound components has a safer and less toxic effect in the treatment of trauma. In order to more effectively use propolis products in wound treatment. This paper reviews the effect and treatment mechanism of propolis on different types of wound healing, as well as the synergistic effect of propolis and other compounds, in order to provide ideas for the further exploration of the biological activity and pharmacological function of propolis in the future, as well as its in-depth development in the field of wound healing. It will also provide a theoretical reference for the further development and utilization of propolis.

Treatment Outcomes of Pulpotomy with Propolis in Comparison with MTA in Human Primary Molars: A 24-month Follow-up Randomized Controlled Trial

Aim and objective

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of propolis as pulpotomy medicament in human primary molars.

Materials and methods

This randomized controlled trial is a two-arm, parallel group study with blinded outcome assessment. The study included a total of 60 primary molars that require pulpotomy treatment in 4- 8-year old children. Teeth were assigned to two groups randomly: Propolis (Test group); Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) (Control group). All the pulpotomized teeth were given stainless steel crowns and the teeth were evaluated clinically and radiographically at 6, 12, and 24 months to grade them as either success or failure. Chi-square test was employed to analyze the data.

Results

Success rates of pulpotomy with propolis and MTA were 80% and 93.1% respectively at 24 months of follow-up interval. Propolis has shown success rates of 90% and 80% at 6- and 12-month follow-up, while MTA has shown a consistent success rate of 93.1% at all the follow-up intervals. The difference in success rate between the groups at all the time intervals is statistically nonsignificant.

Conclusion

Propolis has demonstrated a clinically acceptable success rate comparable to MTA as pulpotomy medicament in primary teeth.

Clinical significance

Biocompatible materials with regenerative potential have drawn the momentum in vital pulp therapy. In this regard, MTA has been emerged as most successful material, but its high cost has limited its use. Hence, there is an absolute need of cost-effective pulpotomy material with regenerative potential. This study provides an evidence that propolis has clinically acceptable success rate as pulpotomy medicament. Considering its low cost and ready availability, it can be recommended as a cost-effective alternative for primary teeth pulpotomy.

How to cite this article

RojaRamya KS, Chandrasekhar R, Uloopi KS, et al. Treatment Outcomes of Pulpotomy with Propolis in Comparison with MTA in Human Primary Molars: A 24-month Follow-up Randomized Controlled Trial. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(S-1):S3-S7.

Beneficial Effects of Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester on Wound Healing in a Diabetic Mouse: Role of VEGF and NO

Cutaneous wound healing is delayed in patients with diabetes. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) has been identified as an effective constituent of propolis with improved wound healing abilities via an oxidative stress decrease. However, its impact on wound healing in diabetic models and its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Determining the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) contents in a human vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC)-conditioned medium was assessed using human VEGF immunoassay and vascular reactivity using porcine coronary artery rings. Later, C57BL/6 or db/db mice were anesthetized, after which a 6-mm biopsy punch was manipulated for perforation via the back skin. Subsequently, CAPE was applied to the wound and changed daily. Furthermore, the injury in each mouse was digitally photographed, and the wound area was quantified. We observed that CAPE increased VEGF levels in human VSMC-conditioned medium, improved endothelium-dependent nitric oxide (NO)-mediated vasorelaxation, inhibited U46619-induced vasoconstriction porcine coronary artery, and enhanced cutaneous wound healing in the diabetic mouse model. Hence, we propose that CAPE improves wound healing in diabetic mice, which is aided by increased VEGF and NO expression.

The use of propolis in dentistry, oral health, and medicine: A review

BACKGROUND

Propolis is a resinous product that is collected from plants by bees to cover holes and crevices in their hives. Propolis has potent antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and anticancer properties. Propolis has been used therapeutically by humans for centuries, including the treatment of dental caries and mouth infections.

HIGHLIGHT

This review article attempts to analyze the potential use of propolis in general dentistry and oral health management.

CONCLUSION

Propolis is potentially useful in dentistry and oral health management based on available in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo studies, as well as human clinical trials.

Historical and modern research on propolis and its application in wound healing and other fields of medicine and contributions by Polish studies

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The history of medical application of propolis (also known as bee glue) dates back to the times of ancient Greeks, Romans, Persians and Egyptians. Honey and other bee products, including propolis, occupy an important place in Polish folk medicine. Scientific research on propolis in Poland began in the early 1960s in Zabrze and continues until now.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The aim of this review is to provide an overview of information on Polish research on propolis and its medical application with particular emphasis on studies concerning wound healing. Consequently, our goal is also to shed a new light on therapeutic potential of Polish propolis in order to support future research in the field.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review of scientific literature on propolis and its medical application was performed by using the literature databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar). We paid special attention to papers describing the effect of propolis on skin wound healing as well as to Polish contribution to research on propolis.

RESULTS

Professor Stan Scheller was the first Polish scientist dealing with propolis and its medical potential. His legacy was continued by several research teams that studied the topic in various aspects. They analyzed propolis composition, its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiapoptotic and anticancer properties as well as its application in dentistry and wound treatment. Burn wound healing physiology after propolis administration was thoroughly studied on pig model, whereas research on patients proved the efficacy of propolis in chronic venous leg ulcer treatment.

CONCLUSION

Polish scientists have made a significant contribution to the research on propolis, its biological properties and influence on wound healing. Propolis ointments can effectively accelerate the healing process and improve healing physiology, so they can be recommended as a promising topical medication for wound treatment in the future clinical and preclinical trials.

Combination of mineral trioxide aggregate and propolis promotes odontoblastic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells through ERK signaling pathway

The aim of this study is to investigate combined effects of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and propolis on odontoblastic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) and to find a signaling pathway involved. Combination of MTA and propolis significantly up-regulated the expression of DSPP and DMP1, and facilitated a mineral nodule formation (p < 0.05). Treatments with MTA, propolis or combined increased the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), one of mitogen-activated protein kinases signaling cascades during odontogenic differentiation of DPSCs (p < 0.05), and U0126, an inhibitor of ERK, decreased calcium deposits (p < 0.05). Combination of MTA and propolis promotes odontogenic differentiation and mineralization of DPSCs through ERK pathway.

Inhibitory effect of Thai propolis on human osteoclastogenesis

BACKGROUND/AIM

Avulsed teeth should be immediately replanted into the socket or otherwise kept in a physiologic storage medium to maintain periodontal ligament cell viability. A previous study has demonstrated that Thai propolis extract can maintain viability of human periodontal ligament cells. However, root resorption by osteoclasts often occurs when the avulsed teeth are replanted. The aim of this study was to determine the inhibitory effect of Thai propolis extract on human osteoclastogenesis in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated for osteoclast precursors and cultured in the presence or absence of various non-toxic concentrations of propolis extract, as determined by the alamarBlue® assay, during in vitro induction of osteoclastogenesis. Osteoclast formation was examined by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining, actin ring formation, and real-time polymerase chain reaction. The resorption pit assay was performed to determine osteoclast function.

RESULTS

Non-toxic concentrations of propolis extract suppressed osteoclast formation by significantly decreasing the percentages of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-positive multinuclear cells and the ratios of cells with F-actin ring formation (P < .01) in a dose-dependent fashion. Expression of several osteoclast-specific genes was significantly downregulated by propolis in a dose-dependent manner (P < .05). The percentages of resorption areas on dentin slices were significantly decreased by propolis (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Thai propolis can inhibit human osteoclast formation and function, which may be beneficial for prevention of root resorption following replantation of avulsed teeth.

Comparative Evaluation of Arimedadi Oil with 0.2% Chlorhexidine Gluconate in Prevention of Plaque and Gingivitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

INTRODUCTION

Chemical plaque control measures are advocated to maintain proper oral hygiene. Ayurvedic medicines are alternatives considered with minimal side effects to treat systemic diseases and dental diseases. So the present study was conducted to assess the anti-plaque efficacy of Arimedadi (herbal) oil against 0.2% Chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash.

AIM

To assess the anti-plaque efficacy of Arimedadi (herbal) oil against 0.2% Chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 45 patients aged 18 to 21 years, with mild to moderate gingivitis were recruited and were divided randomly into three groups with 15 subjects in each group. After baseline data, scaling and polishing was performed. Group A, as Control, Group B, Chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash and Group C used experimental Arimedadi oil mouthwash. Instructions were given to use 10 ml mouthwash twice daily after 30 min of tooth brushing for 1 min till 21 days. Plaque Index (PI) and Gingival Index (GI) were taken to assess Plaque and Gingival health on 7(th) day, 14(th) day and at 21(st) day. The statistical analysis was done using Paired t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Post Hoc test.

RESULTS

There was similar improvement in gingival health among both groups compared to control group up to 21 days (p<0.001). However from 14(th) day to 21(st) day there was no difference in gingival health between Chlorhexidine and Arimedadi group (p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Arimedadi oil is equally effective to Chlorhexidine gluconate as an adjunct to mechanical plaque control in prevention of plaque accumulation and gingivitis. Arimedadi oil could be an effective and safe alternative to 2% Chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash due to its prophylactic and therapeutic benefits.

Clinical and radiographical evaluation of propolis and thymus vulgaris extracts compared with formocresol pulpotomy in human primary molars

Objectives/aims:

This study aimed to examine the success of vital pulpotomy using natural extracts on primary teeth.

Materials and methods:

The study was carried out on 60 primary molars in 20 children indicated for pulpotomy. Primary molars were treated with formocresol (20 teeth), propolis ethanolic extract (20 teeth) or thymus vulgaris ethanolic extract (20 teeth). Treated teeth were clinically and radiographically evaluated after 1, 6 and 12 months.

Results:

The clinical success of formocresol and propolis groups was 88.2%, whereas the thymus group showed 94.4% with no statistical significance difference. The radiographical success for formocresol and propolis was 73.3%, and thymus was 88.2% without any statistical significance difference detected.

Conclusion:

Promising clinical and radiographical success rates of propolis and thymus vulgaris obtained when compared with formocresol.

Caffeic Acid phenethyl ester is a potential therapeutic agent for oral cancer

Head and neck cancers, which affect 650,000 people and cause 350,000 deaths per year, is the sixth leading cancer by cancer incidence and eighth by cancer-related death worldwide. Oral cancer is the most common type of head and neck cancer. More than 90% of oral cancers are oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The overall five-year survival rate of OSCC patients is approximately 63%, which is due to the low response rate to current therapeutic drugs. In this review we discuss the possibility of using caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) as an alternative treatment for oral cancer. CAPE is a strong antioxidant extracted from honeybee hive propolis. Recent studies indicate that CAPE treatment can effectively suppress the proliferation, survival, and metastasis of oral cancer cells. CAPE treatment inhibits Akt signaling, cell cycle regulatory proteins, NF-κB function, as well as activity of matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Therefore, CAPE treatment induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in oral cancer cells. According to the evidence that aberrations in the EGFR/phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling, NF-κB function, COX-2 activity, and MMPs activity are frequently found in oral cancers, and that the phosphorylation of Akt, EGFR, and COX-2 correlates to oral cancer patient survival and clinical progression, we believe that CAPE treatment will be useful for treatment of advanced oral cancer patients.

An in vitro Comparison of Endodontic Medicaments Propolis and Calcium Hydroxide alone and in Combination with Ciprofloxacin and Moxifloxacin against Enterococcus Faecalis

AIM

To evaluate and compare the antimicrobial properties of propolis and calcium hydroxide alone and in combination with ciprofloxacin and moxifloxacin against Enterococcus faecalis (E. Faecalis).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The laboratory study was carried out to test the effectiveness of propolis and calcium hydroxidealone as well as in combination with the established endodontic medicaments (moxifloxacin and ciprofloxacin). The various combinations were-group 1: propolis, group 2: calcium hydroxide, group 3: moxifloxacin, group 4: ciprofoxacin, group 5: propolis + moxifloxacin, group 6: propolis + Ciprofloxacin, group 7: calcium hydroxide + ciprofloxacin, group 8: calcium hydroxide + moxifloxacin. The efficacy of these medicaments was tested by checking for the zone of inhibition for the specific strain (ATCC 29212) of E. faecalis at different time intervals, i.e. 24, 48 and 72 hours.

RESULTS

Mean zone of inhibition was maximum in group V (21.94 ± 4.26) followed by group VI (18.80 ± 1.93), group I (18.71 ± 4.26), group VIII (15.88 ± 2.59), group III (14.91 ± 1.00), group VII (14.57 ± 2.17), group IV (13.91 ± 1.00) and minimum in group II (12.89 ± 2.14). Mean zone of inhibition was found to be maximum at 72 hours and minimum at 24 hours. At all time intervals, the combination of Propalis with Moxifocacin showed the maximum antimicrobial efficacy.

CONCLUSION

On the basis of the results of the present study, it can be concluded that propolis and calcium hydroxide show synergistic effect with moxifloxacin and ciprofloxacin against E. Faecalis. Propolis in combination with antibiotics and alone is more effective than calcium hydroxide.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Since propolis alone and in combination with antibiotics was observed to be more effective than calcium hydroxide, propolis can be considered as an intracanal medicament when compared to traditional calcium hydroxide.

Propolis in dentistry and oral cancer management

Propolis, known as bee glue, is a wax-cum-resin substance, which is created out of a mix of buds from some trees with the substance secreted from the bee's glands. Its diverse chemical content is responsible for many valuable properties. Multiple applications of propolis have been studied and described in detail for centuries. However, currently available information on propolis is scarce. A literature search in the PubMed database was performed for English language articles, using the search terms propolis, oral health, dentistry, and oral cancer; no restrictions were used for publication dates. The aim of the article was to review propolis and its applications in dentistry including oral cancer.

A clinical efficacy of 30% ethenolic extract of Indian propolis and Recaldent™ in management of dentinal hypersensitivity: A comparative randomized clinical trial

Objective:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of 30% ethenolic extract of Indian propolis compared with Recaldent^™ (casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate) in reduction of dentinals hypersensitivity, a randomized, double-blind, split mouth, controlled clinical trial was conducted among the patients residing in Central Jail.

Materials and Methods:

A sample of 73 teeth from 13 patients having at least three teeth with dentinal hypersensitivity (DH) were randomly allocated into three treatment groups: Group A: 30% ethenolic extract of Indian propolis, Group B: Recaldent^™, Group C: Sterile water. Verbal rating scale was used to record the degree of hypersensitivity based on patient's response to tactile and air blast stimuli. The baseline scores were obtained. Each intervention group received applications of their respective agents consecutively on 1^st, 7^th, 14^th, and 21^st day. After each application the scores were recorded.

Results:

Both the 30% Indian propolis and Recaldent^™ showed significant reduction in DH.

Conclusion:

Recaldent^™ was found to be significantly better in reducing the DH compared to propolis and sterile water (P < 0.01).

Propolis decreases lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory mediators in pulp cells and osteoclasts

BACKGROUND

Intracanal medicaments are used to disinfect the root canal system, reduce interappointment pain and inflammation, and prevent resorption. Bacterial components such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) are implicated in the development of pulpal and periapical inflammation and inducing osteoclastogenesis. Propolis is a natural, non-toxic substance collected from bee's wax that has been used for many years in folk medicine. Propolis has been demonstrated to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Our previous studies have shown that propolis inhibits osteoclast maturation. However, the effect of propolis on the inflammatory response of pulp cells and osteoclasts has not been explored.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether propolis alters the inflammatory response of three endodontically relevant cell lines: mouse odontoblast-like cells (MDPC-23), macrophages (RAW264.7), and osteoclasts.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Cells were exposed to 0-20 ug ml(-1) LPS to induce an inflammatory response, in the presence of propolis or vehicle control. Culture supernatants were collected after 6 and 24 h, and expression of multiple soluble mediators was determined using Luminex(®) multiplex technology.

RESULTS

Propolis was effective in reducing secretion of the LPS-induced inflammatory cyto/chemokines: IL-1α, IL-6, IL-12(p70), IL-15, G-CSF, TNF-α, MIP-1α, MCP-1, and IP-10.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate that propolis suppresses the LPS-induced inflammatory response of key cells within the root canal system.

Inflammatory effect of green propolis on dental pulp in rats

Pulpotomy in deciduous teeth is a controversial issue, especially with regard to alternative materials used for the direct pulp capping of the root canal pulp tissue. The aim of the present study was to perform a histological analysis of the initial reaction of the root canal pulp tissue in rats, following pulpotomy and pulp capping with (1) green propolis extract, (2) iodoform paste, (3) green propolis extract + iodoform and (4) calcium hydroxide paste with saline solution. Analyses were performed after 24 hours, 72 hours and 7 days. The substances containing green propolis extract and iodoform led to the production of an intense inflammatory infiltrate and necrosis in the root canal pulp tissue throughout the analyses. In the calcium hydroxide group, inflammatory infiltrate only prevailed at the 72-hour evaluation. Among the substances tested, calcium hydroxide paste induced the lowest intensity of inflammatory response in the root canal pulp tissue. Longer studies should be carried out to analyze the pulp repair process following pulpotomy and pulp capping with the compounds analyzed.

Assessment of ion diffusion from a calcium hydroxide-propolis paste through dentin

This study evaluated the ability of ions from a non-alcoholic calcium hydroxide-propolis paste to diffuse through dentinal tubules. Thirty-six single-rooted bovine teeth were used. The tooth crowns were removed, and the root canals were instrumented and divided into 3 groups: Group 1 - calcium hydroxide-propylene glycol paste; Group 2 - calcium hydroxide-saline solution paste; Group 3 - calcium hydroxide-propolis paste. After the root canal dressings were applied, the teeth were sealed and placed in containers with deionized water. The pH of the water was measured after 3, 24, 72 and 168 hours to determine the diffusion of calcium hydroxide ions through the dentinal tubules. All of the pastes studied promoted the diffusion of calcium hydroxide ions through the dentinal tubules. Associating propolis to calcium hydroxide resulted in a pH increase, which occurred with greater intensity after 72 hours. The calcium hydroxide-propolis paste was able to diffuse in dentin.

Does propolis help to maintain oral health?

Propolis, known also as bee glue, is a wax-cum-resin substance which is created out of a mix of buds from some trees with the substance secreted from bee's glands. Its diverse chemical content is responsible for its many precious salubrious properties. It was used in medicine already in ancient Egypt. Its multiple applications during the centuries have been studied and described in details. The purpose of this study is to present the possible use of propolis in treatment of various diseases of oral cavity in their dental aspect. The paper presents properties and possible applications of bee glue depending on dental specialities. An overview of publications which appeared during the recent years will allow the reader to follow all the possibilities to apply propolis in contemporary dentistry.

Histopathological analysis of corticosteroid-antibiotic preparation and propolis paste formulation as intracanal medication after pulpectomy: an in vivo study

Intracanal medication in pulpectomy therapy is used between appointments with the objective of reducing pain and inflammatory processes in pulp and periapical tissues. Propolis has been known as a natural antibiotic and has been subject of medical and dental research due to its therapeutic properties such as antibiotic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Propolis mouthwash: A new beginning

Background:

This study was carried out to investigate the effectiveness of a propolis-containing mouthrinse in inhibition of plaque formation and improvement of gingival health.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty subjects were selected and randomly assigned into three groups of ten subjects each, which received a propolis-containing mouthrinse, or a negative control (Saline) or a positive control (Chlorhexidine 0.2%). Plaque index and gingival index were assessed at baseline and at a five-day interval.

Results:

Chlorhexidine mouthwash was found to be better than propolis and saline in inhibiting plaque formation. Propolis was found to be only marginally better than chlorhexidine in improving gingival scores.

Conclusion:

The present study suggests that propolis might be used as a natural mouthwash, an alternative to chemical mouthwashes, e.g., chlorhexidine. Further, long term trials are required for more accurate data and any conclusive evidence.

Analytical methods applied to diverse types of Brazilian propolis

Propolis is a bee product, composed mainly of plant resins and beeswax, therefore its chemical composition varies due to the geographic and plant origins of these resins, as well as the species of bee. Brazil is an important supplier of propolis on the world market and, although green colored propolis from the southeast is the most known and studied, several other types of propolis from Apis mellifera and native stingless bees (also called cerumen) can be found. Propolis is usually consumed as an extract, so the type of solvent and extractive procedures employed further affect its composition. Methods used for the extraction; analysis the percentage of resins, wax and insoluble material in crude propolis; determination of phenolic, flavonoid, amino acid and heavy metal contents are reviewed herein. Different chromatographic methods applied to the separation, identification and quantification of Brazilian propolis components and their relative strengths are discussed; as well as direct insertion mass spectrometry fingerprinting.Propolis has been used as a popular remedy for several centuries for a wide array of ailments. Its antimicrobial properties, present in propolis from different origins, have been extensively studied. But, more recently, anti-parasitic, anti-viral/immune stimulating, healing, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and analgesic activities of diverse types of Brazilian propolis have been evaluated. The most common methods employed and overviews of their relative results are presented.

Comparative Evaluation of Antimicrobial Efficacy of MTAD, 3% NaOCI and Propolis Against E Faecalis

Aim

The present study sought to compare the antimicrobial efficacy of 3% NaOCl, Biopure MTAD (Tulsa Dentsply, Tulsa, OK) and Brazilian ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) against Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis).

Methodology

The study utilized 55 extracted human permanent teeth with single root canal. The samples were decoronated, instrumented and sterilized. The teeth were infected with E faecalis for 48 hours. The teeth were divided randomly into 3 groups according to the irrigants used and kept in contact with the respective irrigant for 5 minutes. All the samples were incubated in brain heart infusion (BHI) broth for 96 hours. Disinfection of the samples was determined based on presence or absence of turbidity in the BHI broth 96 hours later. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test.

Results

All the samples treated with MTAD showed complete absence of turbidity, while all the 15 teeth treated with propolis showed presence of turbidity, 8 out of 15 teeth treated with NaOCl showed presence of turbidity. Statistical analysis of the data using chi-square test showed significant difference between the groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The study concluded that MTAD was more effective than 3% NaOCl and propolis against E. faecalis.

Propolis inhibits osteoclast maturation

Propolis, a natural product produced by the honey bee, has been successfully used in medicine as an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent. Traumatic injuries to the teeth, especially avulsion injuries, present a challenging situation for the clinician because of post-treatment complications, such as inflammatory and/or replacement resorption. Agents that reduce osteoclast numbers and activity may be useful in the treatment of traumatic injuries to the teeth. In this study, we evaluated propolis as an anti-resorptive agent. Calcitriol-stimulated mouse marrow cultures, which contain both osteoclasts and osteoblasts, were exposed to the ethanol extracts of propolis or vehicle control and stained for tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-activity to identify osteoclasts. A significant, dose-dependent reduction in multinuclear TRAP+ cells was demonstrated, although the propolis treatment accommodated cell growth and survival (P < 0.05). Propolis also reduced the formation of actin rings in pure cultures of RAW 264.7 osteoclast-like cells, suggesting that it exerts direct actions on osteoclast maturation. In summary, our data suggest that propolis inhibits late stages of osteoclast maturation including fusion of osteoclasts precursors to form giant cells and formation of actin rings. This supports the hypothesis that it may prove useful as a medicament to reduce resorption associated with traumatic injuries to the teeth.

In vitro antimicrobial activity of endodontic pastes with propolis extracts and calcium hydroxide: a preliminary study

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of two experimental pastes containing propolis extract associated with calcium hydroxide against polymicrobial cultures collected from 16 necrotic and fistulae root canals in primary molars of 4-8-year-old children of both sexes. The agar-well diffusion technique was used to determine the antimicrobial activity of the following pastes: 11.0% ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) + calcium hydroxide; and 11.0% extract of propolis without ethanol (EP) + calcium hydroxide. EEP, EP and the association of calcium hydroxide and propylene glycol (CHP) was used as the positive control groups, and propylene glycol was used as a negative control group. Friedman and Wilcoxon tests were used to compare the data from the microbial growth inhibition zones (p<0.05). Paste 1 and Paste 2 showed larger growth inhibition zones against microorganisms from root canal samples than CHP (p=0.021 and 0.003, respectively). Paste 2 tended to have larger growth inhibition zones than Paste 1 (p=0.053). The association between propolis and calcium hydroxide was effective in controlling dental infections in vitro.

Antimicrobial effect of propolis and other substances against selected endodontic pathogens

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the antimicrobial effect of ethanol extract of propolis (EEP) and intracanal medicaments calcium hydroxide, camphorated paramonochlorophenol, and formocresol by means of the macrodilution method using the reinforced clostridial medium (RCM) and brucella and brain heart infusion media.

STUDY DESIGN

The antimicrobial agents were sequentially diluted and tested against anaerobic bacteria Prevotella nigrescens, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Actinomyces israelii, and Clostridium perfringens and against Enterococcus faecalis, with the 5 x 10(5) CFU/mL standardized inocula. The tubes were anaerobically incubated and the minimum inhibitory concentration was detected. Blood agar RCM subcultures were performed to provide minimum bactericidal concentration. The results were analyzed by analysis of variance test.

RESULTS

All drugs were effective against all tested strains, without statistical differences. E. faecalis was the less susceptible strain, and RCM broth promoted faster bacterial growth, but there were no significant differences in these results. Ethanol did not influence the antimicrobial effect of EEP.