Ameliorative effects of ethanolic constituents of Bangladeshi propolis against tetracycline-induced hepatic and renal toxicity in rats

The study reports the phenolic composition of propolis from Bangladesh and its ameliorative effects against tetracycline-induced hepatonephrotoxicity in rats. Male Wistar Albino rats (n = 18) were randomly divided into three following groups: (1) normal control, (2) tetracycline-treatment (200 mg kg rat), and (3) tetracycline (200 mg kg rat) + propolis (100 mg kg rat) treatments. The ethanolic extract of propolis contained major phenolic acids as well as a flavonoid, rutin. Oral exposure to tetracycline caused severe hepatic and renal damage as indicated by significant alterations in liver marker enzymes in rat serum: bilirubin and protein concentrations, lipid profile, and markers of kidney function when compared with controls. The observed biochemical perturbations were accompanied by histopathological changes. Co-administration with propolis extract, however, prevented the changes in biochemical parameters, as revealed by maintenance of cell membrane integrity and regulation of lipid profile and the conservation of the histoarchitecture. Practical applications: Propolis is a resinous honeybee product which is becoming increasingly popular due to its potential contributions to human health. The phenolic compounds identified in propolis from Bangladesh were effective against tetracycline-induced hepatic and renal toxicity. Propolis may be a promising natural product in reducing the effects of chronic liver and kidney damage.