Propolis aqueous extract preserves functional integrity of murine intestinal mucosa after exposure to ionizing radiation

- Histological and biochemical evidence of intestinal damage seen after irradiation.
- Parameters for intestinal function measured in tissue homogenates and plasma.
- Propolis extract prevents histological and biochemical radiation-induced changes.
- Beneficial effect of propolis water extract due mainly to caffeic acid derivatives.

The ability of a specially prepared water propolis extract (PWE) to preserve the functional activity of the intestinal mucosa after radiation exposure was studied. PWE was given orally (650 mg/kg) to rats five days prior to irradiation by 6 Gy and continued for further two days. Rats were sacrificed 24 h later, intestinal segments were examined histologically and homogenates were used to assess relevant biochemical parameters reflecting intestinal injury. Irradiation led to a rise in the histological damage score, a rise in tissue TNF-α and TBARS, and a decrease in sucrase, alkaline phosphatase, GSH and cholecystokinin as well as a decrease in plasma citrulline. The findings reflect a decrease in intestinal functional activity. PWE preserved the intestinal integrity and largely protected against the changes induced in the histology damage score and all parameters measured, possibly as a result of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action of its caffeic acid content.