Caracterizaçao quimica e citotoxicidade da propolis de Apis mellifera sobre fibroblastos de mucosa bucal humana : estudo in vitro

Abstract

The propolis is a resinous substance with many scientifically comproved biological properties. However, few studies have been conducted with the purpose of testing its cytotoxicity in cells from tissues where it is applied. In the oral cavity, the fibroblasts are very important in tissue regeneration and directly affected during various treatments using propolis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of propolis hydroalcoolic solutions from Mato Grosso do Sul, with and without propylene glycol, on the fibroblasts of human buccal mucosa, in short and long term experiments of celular viability, and analyse chemically the extract of propolis. In the short-term test, the concentrations of 1%, 0,5%; 0,1%; 0,01% and 0,001% were tested and the last three ones also tested in the long-term experiment. The results were compared by ANOVA method, complemented by Tukey test considering p<0.05. The short-term solutions with propolis, regardless of the vehicle, 0,5% and 1% were cytotoxic accounting for more than 50% cell death. The solutions and vehicles of 0,001%; 0,01% and 0,1% were biocompatible. The results of the longterm test showed that all propolis solutions with propylene glycol were biocompatible to fibroblasts, however, there was significant cell death after 7 days. The solutions of propolis without propylene glycol were biocompatible in vitro, no presenting significant cell death over time. Four chemical substances - lupeol, 3,5-diprenyl-4- hydroxycinnamic acid (Artepillin C®), 5,7-diidroxy-4’-methoxyflavone (acacetina) and 3,5,7-trihydroxy-4’-methoxyflavonol were identified by chemical analysis. It was possible to infer that the cytotoxicity of propolis depended on the concentration used and the propylene glycol in the long-term experiment presented indesirable effects because of its higher cell death percentage in the course of time.