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Propolis in the Treatment of Nasal Skin Lesions
Abstract
Many branches of medicine treat skin conditions that manifest on the nose. When people experience skin lesions on the nose, they often seek the advice of dermatologists, otorhinolaryngologists, primary care physicians, and general plastic and dermatologic surgeons. Skin lesions on the face and head are common in dermatologic surgeons’ daily practice, and this article is part two of a review series covering this topic. When assessing skin diseases on the nose or planning the reconstruction of surgical defects, it is essential to consider the nose skin’s special anatomical and histological features. Areas of the skin that are thinner, less sebaceous, and more pliable include the dorsum, columella, and sidewalls. There is thicker, more sebaceous, adhesive, and less flexible skin around the nasal tip and alae. The cosmetic industry has invested significantly in propolis for acne treatment, particularly in cosmeceuticals. Dermo-cosmetics containing up to 4% propolis can effectively prevent and treat acne vulgaris thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, healing, and immunomodulatory properties.
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We revealed the plant origin of propolis from Lombok, Indonesia; its plant origin was Calophyllum inophyllum Linn. This was confirmed by observing the behavior of stingless bees and from the LC-MS analysis of the ethanol extracts of the propolis and C. inophyllum resin. Furthermore, a new chromanone derivative, calophylloidic acid A (1), was isolated from the stem bark resin of C. inophyllum. The structure of 1 was elucidated using a combination method based on the IR, UV, HRESIMS, and 1D and 2D NMR analyses. The absolute structure of positions 2 and 3 of 1 was determined by electronic circular dichroism (ECD). This determination was supported by the time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) and ECD calculations. Additionally, the C. inophyllum resin, propolis, and 1 exhibited significant antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
Three new compounds, namely sulabiroins A (1) and B (2), and 2',3'-dihydro-3'-hydroxypapuanic acid (3), were isolated from the propolis of stingless bees (Tetragonula aff. biroi) collected on South Sulawesi, Indonesia. In addition, ten known compounds, (–)-papuanic acid (4), (–)-isocalolongic acid (5), isopapuanic acid (6), isocalopolyanic acid (7), glyasperin A (8), broussoflavonol F (9), (2S)-5,7-dihydroxy-4'-methoxy-8-prenylflavanone (10), isorhamnetin (11), (1'S)-2-trans,4-trans-abscisic acid (12), and (1'S)-2-cis,4-trans-abscisic acid (13) were identified. The structures of the new and known compounds were determined by spectroscopic analysis. The absolute configurations of sulabiroins A (1) and B (2) were determined by X-ray crystallography analysis and ECD calculation, respectively. The propolis from stingless bee (Tetragonula aff. biroi) collected on South Sulawesi contained compounds not present in propolis from other regions. Sulabiroin A (1) and isorhamnetin (11) were examined for xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activity as one of biological activities; isorhamnetin (11) exhibited potent XO inhibitory activity, with an IC50 value of 3.9 µm.
Objective: The study aims to perform molecular docking to examine the interaction between propolis compound and SARS-CoV-2 main protease. Methods: The protein target of this research was the crystal structure of SARS-CoV-2 main protease in complex with an inhibitor N3 (PDB ID: 6LU7). The ligand of this research was the bioactive compounds from Propolis of Tetragonula aff. biroi. Results: The results showed that propolis compound which has the potential to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 protease activity was Sulabiroins A (binding affinity-8.1 kcal/mol), following by (2S)-5,7-dihydroxy-4'-methoxy-8-prenylflavanone acid and broussoflavonol F (binding affinity-7.9 kcal/mol) with binding similarity more than 50% compared to N3-main protease interaction. Conclusion: Molecular docking showed propolis compounds of Tetragonula aff. biroi potential to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 main protease activity. The highest binding affinity presented by Sulabiroins A, following by (2S)-5,7-dihydroxy-4'-methoxy-8-prenylflavanone acid and broussoflavonol F, with values of-8.1 kcal/mol,-7.9 kcal/mol, and-7.9 kcal/mol, respectively, with binding similarity more than 50% compared to N3 and SARS-CoV-2 main protease interaction.
Propolis is a sticky material manufactured by bees to build and protect their hive. Propolis had been used worldwide for years in folk medicine. The aim of this paper is to give information about traditional uses, phytochemical screening and pharmacological studies of propolis in the world by using secondary references such as journals and articles. The traditional uses of propolis include home remedies, toothpastes, mouthwashes, creams, drops, dietary supplement, anti-putrefactive, anti-pyretic agent, antiseptic, wound healing agent, tuberculosis treatment, cold syndrome, treatment of burns, acne, herpes simplex and genitalis, neurodermatitis, anti-fungal activities in ocular and vaginal infections. Phytochemical screening had shown that propolis contains anthraquinones, alkaloids, fatty acids, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, triterpenes, tannins and volatile oils. Propolis has pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antitumor, antioxidant and anti-cancer. Based on this article, propolis has many function and can be used in future as an alternative medicine. Â
Introduction:
Antibiotics that suppress Propionibacterium acnes are the standard treatment for acne but are becoming less effective, due to the appearance of antibiotic-resistant strains. Many plants are known to have innate antimicrobial action and can be used as alternatives to antibiotics; thus, it is necessary to prove their effectiveness in vivo. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-acne efficacy of a new cream based on three natural extracts, comparing it to erythromycin cream and placebo.
Patients and methods:
Sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris were randomly divided into three groups: treated with cream containing 20% propolis, 3% "tea tree oil", and 10% "Aloe vera" (PTAC) (n=20); or with 3 % erythromycin cream (ERC) (n=20); or with placebo (n=20). At baseline, after 15 and 30 days, investigators evaluated response to treatment by counting acne lesions through noninvasive measurements and macrophotography.
Results:
All the clinical and instrumental values studied were statistically different from placebo except for sebometry, pHmetry, and erythema index values, measured on healthy skin. Unlike in the placebo group, papular and scar lesions showed high erythema reduction after 15 and 30 days of PTAC and ERC application.
Conclusion:
The PTAC formulation was better than ERC in reducing erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count.
Background and Objectives: The dichloromethane crude extract (P), and compounds, glyasperin A (1), propolin E (2), and propolin A (3), obtained from Philippine stingless bee (Tetragonula biroi Friese) nests, were evaluated for their cytotoxic potentials. Materials and Methods: The anti-proliferative activities of P and 1-3 against human cancer cell lines, breast (MCF-7) and colon (HT-29 and HCT-116), and a normal cell line, human dermal fibroblast neonatal (HDFn), were evaluated using the PrestoBlue® cell viability assay. Results: The crude extract (P) was most anti-proliferative against HCT-116 cells (IC50 = 1.410 μg/mL). Glyasperin A (1) exhibited the strongest effect on MCF-7 cells (IC50 = 2.378 μg/mL). Propolin E (2) was most cytotoxic against HCT-116 cells (IC50 = 2.279 μg/mL), while propolin A (3) was most inhibitory against MCF-7 cells (2.815). Comparing the colorectal cancer cell lines, HCT-116 was generally more susceptible under P, 2 and 3 (IC50 = 1.410, 2.279, 3.013 μg/mL, respectively) than HT-29 (5.620, 5.320, 5.359). Comparing propolin E and propolin A, significant difference was seen in HCT-116 cells where 2 (IC50 = 2.279 μg/mL) was more cytotoxic than 3 (3.013). The crude extract (P) was more cytotoxic than Zeocin against HCT-116 cells. Conclusion: The dichloromethane crude extract, glyasperin A, propolin E, and propolin A, from Philippine stingless bee (Tetragonula biroi Friese) nests, exhibited strong cytotoxic activities against MCF-7, HT-116, and HT-29 cells with IC50 values ranging from 1.410 to 5.620 μg/mL. This is the first report on the anti-proliferative properties of the crude extract and compounds from this source.
Isoflavonoids have been largely studied due to their distinct biological activities identified thus far.
Herein, we evaluated the activity of neovestitol, an isoflavonoid isolated from Brazilian red propolis,
in acute and chronic inflammation. As for acute inflammation, we found that neovestitol reduced
neutrophil migration, leukocyte rolling and adhesion, as well as expression of ICAM-1 in the mesenteric
microcirculation during lipopolysaccharide-induced acute peritonitis. No changes were observed in the
levels of TNF-α, CXCL1/KC and CXCL2/MIP-2 upon pretreatment with neovestitol. The administration
of an inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) inhibitor abolished the inhibitory effects of neovestitol in
neutrophil migration and ICAM-1 expression. Nitrite levels increased upon treatment with neovestitol.
No effects of neovestitol were observed on the chemotaxis of neutrophils in vitro. As for chronic
inflammation, neovestitol also reduced the clinical score and joint damage in a collagen-induced
arthritis model. There was no change in the frequency of IL-17-producing TCD4+ cells. In addition,
pretreatment with neovestitol reduced the levels of IL-6. These results demonstrate a potential
anti-inflammatory activity of neovestitol, which may be useful for therapeutic purposes and/or as a
nutraceutical.
Propolis is a resin produced by honeybees by mixing wax, pollen, salivary secretions, and collected natural resins.
The precise composition of propolis varies with the source, and over 300 chemical components belonging to the flavonoids, terpenes, and phenolic acids have been identified in propolis. Moreover, its chemical composition is subjected to the geographical location, botanical origin, and bee species.
Propolis and its compounds have been the focus of many works due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity; however, it is now recognized that propolis also possesses regenerative properties.
There is an increasing interest in the healing potential of natural products, considering the availability and low cost of these products. Propolis contains a huge number of compounds that explicate some biological effects that speeds up the healing process and is widely used in folk remedies.
This review aims to condense the results on the mechanism of activity of propolis and its compounds.
Chemical investigation of the dichloromethane extracts of the propolis collected from bee (Tetragonula biroi Friese) hives in San Roque, Sorsogon, Philippines afforded propolin A (1), propolin E (2), propolin H (3), glyasperin A (4), squalene, a mixture of lupeol, α-amyrin, β-amyrin, and another mixture of urs-12-en-3-one, olean-12-en-3-one and lup-12-en-3-one. The structures of 2-4 were elucidated by extensive 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, while 1 was identified by comparison of its NMR data with 2.
A acne é uma doença de pele extremamente comum. Sua patogênese é multifatorial, incluindo hiperqueratinização folicular, hiperplasia sebácea, hipercolonização bacteriana. A Propionibacterium acnes possui um papel relevante na resposta inflamatória da patogênese da acne. Os antibióticos representam uma das classes de medicamentos utilizadas no tratamento da acne. No entanto, as reações adversas causadas por esses fármacos tornam o tratamento desagradável, além de casos relatados de resistência bacteriana. Por esse motivo, o uso de produtos naturais tem sido destaque na área de dermatologia. O presente trabalho visou avaliar "in vitro" os possíveis efeitos antimicrobianos do óleo essencial de Rosmarinus officinalis e da tintura de própolis sobre cepa de Propionibacterium acnes (ATCC 1969). O óleo essencial foi extraído pela técnica de hidrodestilação e obteve-se a tintura de própolis por maceração. O ensaio antimicrobiano foi realizado pela técnica da diluição em tubos. O óleo foi testado em diferentes concentrações, variando de 16% a 0,0625% e a tintura de 10% a 0,072312%. Pode-se verificar que o óleo essencial de Rosmarinus officinalis L. não apresentou atividade antibacteriana contra a cepa de Propionibacterium acnes. A tintura de própolis teve ação em várias concentrações, sendo a concentração inibitória mínima de 0,625%.
Skin diseases on the nose are seen in a variety of medical disciplines. Dermatologists, otorhinolaryngologists, general practitioners and general plastic and dermatologic surgeons are regularly consulted regarding cutaneous lesions on the nose. This article is the second part of a review series dealing with cutaneous lesions on the head and face, which are frequently seen in daily practice by a dermatologic surgeon. In this review, we focus on those skin diseases on the nose where surgery or laser therapy is considered a possible treatment option or that can be surgically evaluated.
In this study the antibacterial and antifungal properties of propolis, a natural product of bees, have been investigated against different pathogens. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) were determined according to NCCLS standards on 320 strains including Staphylococcus aureus, Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Haemophilus influenzae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans. Time-kill curves were assessed for susceptible microorganisms, testing 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 4 x MIC for propolis, by counting viable bacteria after 0, 3, 6, 24 hours and viable yeasts after 0, 3, 6, 24 and 48 hours. Propolis showed good antimicrobial activity against most of the isolates, particularly S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae and M. catarrhalis, but not against Enterobacteriaceae. Time-kill curves demonstrated bacteriostatic rather than bactericidal activity of propolis, the latter being evident only at high concentrations.
One of the factors that contributes to the pathogenesis of acne is Propionibacterium acnes; yet, the molecular mechanism by which P. acnes induces inflammation is not known. Recent studies have demonstrated that microbial agents trigger cytokine responses via Toll-like receptors (TLRs). We investigated whether TLR2 mediates P. acnes-induced cytokine production in acne. Transfection of TLR2 into a nonresponsive cell line was sufficient for NF-kappa B activation in response to P. acnes. In addition, peritoneal macrophages from wild-type, TLR6 knockout, and TLR1 knockout mice, but not TLR2 knockout mice, produced IL-6 in response to P. acnes. P. acnes also induced activation of IL-12 p40 promoter activity via TLR2. Furthermore, P. acnes induced IL-12 and IL-8 protein production by primary human monocytes and this cytokine production was inhibited by anti-TLR2 blocking Ab. Finally, in acne lesions, TLR2 was expressed on the cell surface of macrophages surrounding pilosebaceous follicles. These data suggest that P. acnes triggers inflammatory cytokine responses in acne by activation of TLR2. As such, TLR2 may provide a novel target for treatment of this common skin disease.
Stingless bees (Apidae: Meliponini) are common visitors to flowering plants in the tropics, but evidence for their importance and effectiveness as crop pollinators is lacking for most plant species. They are known to visit the flowers of approximately 90 crop species. They were confirmed to be effective and important pollinators of 9 species. They may make a contribution to the pollination of approximately 60 other species, but there is insufficient information to determine their overall effectiveness or importance. They have been recorded from another 20 crops, but other evidence suggests that they do not have an important role because these plants are pollinated by other means. The strengths and limitations of stingless bees as crop pollinators are discussed. Aspects of their biology that impact on their potential for crop pollination are reviewed, including generalized flower visiting behavior of colonies, floral constancy of individual bees, flight range, and the importance of natural vegetation for maintaining local populations.
Propionibacterium acnes and P. granulosum are widely regarded as the aetiological agents of inflammatory acne. Their proliferation and metabolism are controlled using lengthy courses of oral and/or topical antibiotics. Despite numerous reports of skin colonization by antibiotic-resistant propionibacteria among acne patients, accurate prevalence data are available only for the U.K.
To determine the prevalence of skin colonization by antibiotic-resistant propionibacteria among acne patients and their contacts from six European centres.
Skin swabs were collected from 664 acne patients attending centres in the U.K., Spain, Italy, Greece, Sweden and Hungary. Phenotypes of antibiotic-resistant propionibacteria were determined by measuring the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of a panel of tetracycline and macrolide, lincosamide and streptogramin B (MLS) antibiotics. Resistance determinants were characterized by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using primers specific for rRNA genes and erm(X), followed by nucleotide sequencing of the amplified DNA.
Viable propionibacteria were recovered from 622 patients. A total of 515 representative antibiotic-resistant isolates and 71 susceptible isolates to act as control strains were characterized phenotypically. The prevalence of carriage of isolates resistant to at least one antibiotic was lowest in Hungary (51%) and highest in Spain (94%). Combined resistance to clindamycin and erythromycin was much more common (highest prevalence 91% in Spain) than resistance to the tetracyclines (highest prevalence 26.4% in the U.K.). No isolates resistant to tetracycline were detected in Italy, or in Hungary. Overall, there were strong correlations with prescribing patterns. Prevalence of resistant propionibacteria on the skin of untreated contacts of the patients varied from 41% in Hungary to 86% in Spain. Of the dermatologists, 25 of 39 were colonized with resistant propionibacteria, including all those who specialized in treating acne. None of 27 physicians working in other outpatient departments harboured resistant propionibacteria.
The widespread use of topical formulations of erythromycin and clindamycin to treat acne has resulted in significant dissemination of cross-resistant strains of propionibacteria. Resistance rates to the orally administered tetracycline group of antibiotics were low, except in Sweden and the U.K. Resistant genotypes originally identified in the U.K. are distributed widely throughout Europe. Antibiotic-resistant propionibacteria should be considered transmissible between acne-prone individuals, and dermatologists should use stricter cross-infection control measures when assessing acne in the clinic.
Propolis is a natural resinous substance collected by bees from tree exudates and secretions. Its antimicrobial activity has been investigated and inhibitory action on Staphylococcus aureus growth was evaluated. The in vitro synergism between ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) and antimicrobial drugs by two susceptibility tests (Kirby and Bauer and E-Test) on 25 S. aureus strains was evaluated. Petri dishes with sub-inhibitory concentrations of EEP were incubated with 13 drugs using Kirby and Bauer method and synergism between EEP and five drugs [choramphenicol (CLO), gentamicin (GEN), netilmicin (NET), tetracycline (TET), and vancomycin (VAN)] was observed. Nine drugs were assayed by the E-test method and five of them exhibited a synergism [CLO, GEN, NET, TET, and clindamycin (CLI)]. The results demonstrated the synergism between EEP and antimicrobial drugs, especially those agents that interfere on bacterial protein synthesis.
We investigated the antibacterial activity of sub-inhibitory concentrations of ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP), and its effect on the antibacterial activity of some antibiotics. Some clinically isolated Gram-positive strains were used. Moreover, sub-inhibitory concentrations of EEP were used to value its action on some important virulence factors like lipase and coagulase enzymes, and on biofilm formation in Staphylococcus aureus. Our results indicated that EEP had a significant antimicrobial activity towards all tested clinical strains. Adding EEP to antibacterial tested drugs, it drastically increased the antimicrobial effect of ampicillin, gentamycin and streptomycin, moderately the one of chloramphenicol, ceftriaxon and vancomycin, while there was no effect with erithromycin. Moreover, our results pointed out an inhibitory action of EEP on lipase activity of 18 Staphylococcus spp. strains and an inhibitory effect on coagulase of 11 S. aureus tested strains. The same EEP concentrations showed a negative interaction with adhesion and consequent biofilm formation in S. aureus ATCC 6538P.
An understanding of the molecular signaling involved in sebaceous gland lipid production is needed to develop therapeutic targets to improve acne. Treatment with methylisobutylxanthine, dexamethasone, and a high dose of insulin (MDI) has been shown to differentiate 3T3-L1 preadipocytes into adipocytes, a differentiation marked by an increase in lipid production. The present study has the following aims: (1) Since high doses of insulin, as found in MDI, will activate the IGF-1 receptor, we sought to determine if IGF-1 is capable of reproducing the lipogenic effect seen with MDI treatment, and (2) to determine if the sterol response element-binding protein-1 (SREBP-1) pathway mediates the increase in lipogenesis. Here we report that MDI increases lipogenesis and that this effect can be attributed wholly to the high-dose insulin in SEB-1 cells. Further, we show that a physiologically relevant dose of IGF-1 or high-dose (1 microM) insulin induces an increase in SREBP-1 mRNA, protein, and total lipid production; while 100 nM insulin induces lipogenesis yet the SREBP protein levels remain unchanged. These data indicate that activation of the IGF-1 receptor increases lipogenesis in SEB-1 cells through both SREBP-dependent and SREBP-independent pathways.
Sebum production is key in the pathophysiology of acne, an extremely common condition, which when severe, may require treatment with isotretinoin, a known teratogen. Apart from isotretinoin and hormonal therapy, no agents are available to reduce sebum. Increasing our understanding of the regulation of sebum production is a milestone in identifying alternative therapeutic targets. Studies in sebocytes and human sebaceous glands indicate that agonists of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) alter sebaceous lipid production. The goal of this study is to verify the expression and activity of PPARs in human skin and SEB-1 sebocytes and to assess the effects of PPAR ligands on sebum production in patients. To investigate the contribution of each receptor subtype to sebum production, lipogenesis assays were performed in SEB-1 sebocytes that were treated with PPAR ligands and isotretinoin. Isotretinoin significantly decreased lipogenesis, while the PPARalpha agonist-GW7647, PPARdelta agonist-GW0742, PPARalpha/delta agonist-GW2433, PPARgamma agonist rosiglitazone, and the pan-agonist-GW4148, increased lipogenesis. Patients treated with thiazolidinediones or fibrates had significant increases in sebum production (37 and 77%, respectively) when compared to age-, disease-, and sex-matched controls. These data indicate that PPARs play a role in regulating sebum production and that selective modulation of their activity may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of acne.
We collected stingless bee propolis Tetragonula biroi in order to find materials for medicine and cosmetics applications from tropical rainforest resources. Even though this bee has some biological functions including a cancer cell line, hair growth promotion, asthma remedy, α-glucosidase enzyme inhibition, and antiviral action, the investigation on anti-acne has not been reported yet. This study was to focus on propolis Tetragonula biroi extracts and leads us to isolate active compounds for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-acne. We used methanol to obtain the extract from this propolis and assayed it with antioxidants, anti-inflammation, and anti-acne. The extract showed strong activity in antioxidants by DPPH radical scavenging activity (82.31% in 6.25 μg/ml). Via a column chromatography and Reveleris PREP purification system, we isolated 3’–O–methyldiplacone, nymphaeol A, and 5,7,3′,4′–tetrahydroxy–6–geranyl flavonol. These compounds showed potential biological activity with IC50 for antioxidant 6.33, 15.49, 17.32 μM; and antiinflammatory 121.54, 121.20, 117.31 μM. The isolated compounds showed anti-acne properties with properties 0.00, 14.11, and 13.78 mm for the inhibition zone (at a concentration of 1 μg/well), respectively. The results indicated that the propolis extract of Tetragonula biroi has the potential to be developed as a cosmetic agent; however, further work needs to be done to clarify its application.
Background
Stingless bees (Meliponini), like honeybees Apis mellifera, collect plant resins in order to produce propolis (cerumen, geopropolis). This type of propolis has long been used in traditional medicine in Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, India, and Vietnam, as a remedy for improving health and treating various diseases. The scientific and commercial interest in stingless bee propolis has been steadily increasing over the last few years. The new and growing knowledge in this field requires systematising, as a basis for further work. Recent reviews of Meliponini propolis deal only with the South American and Mesoamerican species, while reviews of the Asian, Australian and African species are missing. Furthermore, the chemical composition has not been thoroughly reviewed since 2007.
Purpose
This review summarises and discusses the available data about the chemical composition of propolis from the stingless bee species (Meliponinae) of the Americas, Asia and Australia, published after 2007. The published information on the biological action of chemically characterised Meliponini propolis, and of individual constituents, is addressed. The plant sources of this propolis are also considered.
Conclusion and perspectives
Chemical studies of Meliponini propolis has resulted in the discovery of new natural molecules, some of them with valuable bioactivity. Moreover, finding known molecules in propolis stimulates the study of their pharmacological properties. The enormous chemical variability of stingless bee propolis is a challenge to chemists, entomologists and pharmacologists. It is essential to perform pharmacological studies with only chemically characterised propolis of stingless bees. Further studies are required to chemically characterise and scientifically support the medicinal properties of stingless bee propolis and to clarify the potential for its commercial use. This could lead to increased prices for Meliponinae propolis and provide an additional source of income for farmers in rural communities with most serious social needs.
Three new compounds, namely, 4-(4'-hydroxy-3'-methoxyphenyl)-3,5,7-trihydroxycoumarin (1) and sulawesins A (2) and B (3), were isolated from the propolis of stingless bees ( Tetragonula aff. biroi) collected on South Sulawesi, Indonesia. In addition, five known compounds, glyasperin A, broussoflavonol F, (2 S)-5,7-dihydroxy-4'-methoxy-8-prenylflavanone, (1' S)-2- trans,4- trans-abscisic acid, and (1' S)-2- cis,4- trans-abscisic acid, were identified. The structures of the new compounds were determined by a combination of methods that included mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy. The absolute configuration of sulawesin A (2), a new podophyllotoxin derivative, was determined by X-ray crystallography. The absolute configuration of sulawesin B (3) was also determined by the ECD calculation. 4-(4'-Hydroxy-3'-methoxyphenyl)-3,5,7-trihydroxycoumarin (1) and sulawesin A (2) were examined for xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activity; 1 exhibited XO inhibitory activity, with an IC50 value of 3.9 μM.
Background and objective:
Based on reports of poor wound healing and scarring, it is currently recommended that patients wait 6 months after completion of oral isotretinoin therapy before the safe initiation of laser treatment. Our aim was to evaluate the safety of non-ablative fractional laser (NAFL) treatment for acne scars within 1 month after isotretinoin therapy.
Study design/methods:
This was a randomized split-face controlled trial involving 10 patients with acne scars who had completed isotretinoin treatment. All patients received three treatments each spaced 4 weeks apart with an erbium-doped 1550 nm NAFL on one side of the face within 1 month after isotretinoin therapy. The untreated side acted as a control. Wound healing and adverse effects as well as acne scar improvement were evaluated by two blinded dermatologists.
Results:
All patients demonstrated normal wound healing post NAFL treatments, and neither hypertrophic scars nor keloids were observed. Acne scar improvement was satisfactory.
Conclusion:
NAFL treatment for acne scarring appears to be well tolerated within 1 month of completing isotretinoin treatment. Dermatologists should reevaluate the current recommendation to wait 6 months after isotretinoin treatment for acne scar revision with lasers. Other larger studies are necessary to further challenge this dogma. Lasers Surg. Med. XX:XX-XX, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Propolis collected from the nests of stingless bee, Tetragonula biroi, and exudates from five tree species observed to be foraged by T. biroi, namely, mango (Mangifera indica), jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyl/us), pili (Canarium ovatum), caimito (Chrysophyllum cainito) and chico (Achras sapota) were processed to identify the flavonoids and phenolic compounds using tandem liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The flavonoids and phenolic compounds identified from the propolis and exudates from the five plant species were similar. They were pinobanksin- 5, 7-dimethyl ether and Artepillin C, luteolin-5-methyl ether, pinobanskin-3-0 (butyrate or isobutyrate) and kaempferide. Characterization of each compound present in propolis is necessary to determine its plant origin and biological activity.
Many ingredients used in cosmetics evoke a comedogenic response. Rabbit ear model (REM) is a useful method that can replace human in examining materials and products in early developmental stage. However, a number of studies pointed out its disadvantage that it overreacts to comedogenic materials. The purpose of this study was to find the most appropriate region for evaluating comedogenicity in human skin.
Sixty-six female subjects (age 32.48 ± 10 years; range 20-52 years) with mild to moderate facial acne lesions were included in this study. The whole face, upper chest, and back of volunteers were photographed. Lesion (closed and open comedones) counting, instrumentation of sebum secretion level, and analysis of porphyrin number were performed. The entire study was performed under environmental conditions of specific relative temperature and humidity, controlled and maintained identically for each volunteer.
In case of closed comedone, forehead showed a significant correlation with frontal cheek, lateral cheek, chin, and upper back. Meanwhile, significant correlations were observed between frontal cheek and chin as well as lateral cheek and chest. As for open comedone, forehead showed a significant correlation with chin site. A significant correlation was also observed between front cheek and lateral cheek as well as between upper chest and back. Analyzing the correlation between the occurrence of comedones and sebum in each region, a significant correlation between closed comedone and sebum was observed in frontal and lateral cheek. Analyzing the correlation between the occurrence of comedones and porphyrine in each region, a significant correlation between open comedone and porphyrin was observed in chin.
When evaluating the comedogenicity of cosmetics ingredients or products, this study recommends using both of the methods of testing on back and directly testing on face according to the characteristics of the materials. In case of mild potent ingredients or products in particular, verification through usability test that the directly test on face will help securing reliability.
© 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin disorder of the pilosebaceus unit. Although most common among teenagers, acne can also occur in younger patients and can persist into, or develop in, adulthood. Acne presents with a spectrum of noninflammatory and inflammatory lesions commonly occurring on the face, chest and back. The major goals of acne therapy are treatment of existing acne lesions, prevention of new lesions, limiting duration of the disorder and preventing permanent scarring. This article will look at the pathogenesis, clinical features and diagnosis of acne, followed by a discussion of available treatments.
Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is an anaerobic bacteria implicated in the pathogenesis of acne. The last 30 years have witnessed an alarming increase in resistance to antibiotics commonly employed to treat acne. Antibiotic resistance in acne represents a significant international public health concern because resistance can occur in more pathogenic bacteria than P. acnes, and an increase in pathogenic P. acnes has been reported. Current treatment guidelines offer strategies to limit the potential for resistance while achieving optimal outcome in the management of inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne.
In humans, steroid 5α-reductase is involved in the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). We tested the steroid
5α-reductase inhibitory activity of the 70% acetone extract of woody plants. The tannin polymer prepared from the 70% acetone
extract showed the highest steroid 5α-reductase inhibitory activity. Furthermore, the steroid 5α-reductase inhibitory activity
of tannins was not affected by the addition of superoxide dismutase or catalase. It was concluded that the steroid 5α-reductase
inhibitory activity of condensed tannin was caused by binding to the steroid 5α-reductase, rather than from the peroxide/superoxide
produced by tannins. The tannins, prepared from tree barks, with potential for steroid 5α-reductase inhibitory activity might
be advantageous in therapy for steroid 5α-reductase diseases such as BPH or prostate cancer.
Acne vulgaris, a multifactorial condition often conferring significant psychosocial morbidity, affects an estimated 40 million people in the United States. The majority of these individuals are adolescents and young adults. The pathophysiology of the condition is still not fully known, but it is believed to be related in part to excess sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, microbial colonization by P acnes, and inflammation. Prior to initiating treatment in a female patient, a hyperandrogenic state must be considered and ruled out through history, physical exam, and laboratory evaluation if necessary. Treatment options are vast and include hormonal therapy among others. Hormonal therapies have long been noted to reduce acne lesions and offer a valuable adjuvant to standard therapy. Hormonal agents are thought to improve acne by blocking the androgen receptor and/or decreasing circulating androgens which leads to decreased sebum production. Hormonal treatment options include spironolactone, other antiandrogens, and oral contraceptives. The use of these agents to effectively treat acne has been demonstrated in several randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials. Optimal results are often achieved with combination therapy with the goal of targeting multiple pathogenic pathways in acne development.
The Global Alliance to Improve Outcomes in Acne published recommendations for the management of acne as a supplement to the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology in 2003. The recommendations incorporated evidence-based strategies when possible and the collective clinical experience of the group when evidence was lacking. This update reviews new information about acne pathophysiology and treatment-such as lasers and light therapy-and relevant topics where published data were sparse in 2003 but are now available including combination therapy, revision of acne scarring, and maintenance therapy. The update also includes a new way of looking at acne as a chronic disease, a discussion of the changing role of antibiotics in acne management as a result of concerns about microbial resistance, and factors that affect adherence to acne treatments. Summary statements and recommendations are provided throughout the update along with an indication of the level of evidence that currently supports each finding. As in the original supplement, the authors have based recommendations on published evidence as much as possible.
Propolis (bee glue) was found to have antibacterial activity against a range of commonly encountered cocci and Gram-positive rods, including the human tubercle bacillus, but only limited activity against Gram-negative bacilli. These findings confirm previous reports of antimicrobial properties of this material, possibly attributable to its high flavonoid content.
Sebaceous gland secretion was measured in 649 male and female subjects, of whom 67 (10.3 per cent) were black. No consistent difference in sebaceous gland activity was found between black and white skin. As sebum is an integral etiologic factor in acne, these findings are consistent with the clinical impression and with epidemiologic data, albeit scant, that the incidence of acne vulgaris in the black population differs little, if at all, from the incidence in the white population.
The objectives of this study were to determine which factors in early pubertal girls might be predictive of later, severe facial acne.
The study was a 5-year longitudinal cohort study, with yearly visits from 1987 through 1991, in a volunteer sample of 439 black and 432 white fourth- and fifth-grade girls with consent from their legal guardians. The subjects were recruited from public and parochial schools in Cincinnati, Ohio. The degree of facial acne was classified annually as mild, moderate, or severe. Blood samples were obtained at the first, third, and fifth years of the study. Using the acne status during the fifth year of the study as the outcome variable, we determined the contributions from the prior acne status and the serum levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), testosterone, free testosterone (FT), estradiol (E2), progesterone, and testosterone-estrogen binding globulin (TEBG) and compared the results at various ages and at times before and after menarche.
No racial differences in acne or hormone levels were found. There was a progressive increase in the number of acne lesions with age and maturation. The girls exhibited many more comedonal than inflammatory acne lesions, regardless of age. The girls in whom severe acne developed by the fifth year of the study had significantly more comedones and inflammatory lesions than girls with mild or moderate acne, as early as age 10 years, approximately 2 h years before menarche, a time when their degree of acne was mild. Girls with mild comedonal acne had significantly later onset of menarche (12.5 compared with 12.2 years) than girls with severe comedonal acne. Girls in whom severe comedonal acne developed had significantly higher levels of serum DHEAS and, in a longitudinal analysis, somewhat higher levels of testosterone and FT in comparison with girls who had mild or moderate comedonal acne. Serum E2, testosterone/E2, progesterone, and TEBG values were no different in girls with severe compared with mild or moderate comedonal acne.
The early development of comedonal acne may be one of the best predictors of later, more severe disease. The adrenal hormone DHEAS appears to play an important role in the initiation of acne. DHEAS, testosterone, and FT are associated with the perpetuation of severe comedonal acne. Early recognition of young girls at risk of having severe comedonal acne may enable the clinician to intervene and thus prevent unwanted sequelae.
Hypersensitivity to P. acnes may account for the great variation in acne severity. Alternative explanations such as hyperandrogenism fail to account for disease severity in large numbers of patients.
Although knowledge concerning the dermatological treatment of chronic acne has grown considerably in recent years, relatively few studies have assessed the impact of effective physical intervention upon the psychoemotional functioning of patients. Hypotheses regarding the psychological impact of acne were developed using concepts drawn from evolutionary psychology. A sample of 34 patients (19 men and 15 women) with chronic acne were assessed for psychological, emotional and dermatological symptomatology using a variety of self-report questionnaires over four time-points during 16 weeks treatment with isotretinoin. Thirty-four patients completed the first assessment, 21 the second, 20 the third and 15 the fourth and final assessment. At the first assessment, prior to isotretinoin treatment, 15 patients (44%) reported clinically significant levels of anxiety, while six patients (18%) reported clinically significant depression. Women with acne were significantly more embarrassed than their male counterparts about their skin disease. Treatment with isotretinoin produced significant improvements across a wide variety of psychological functions, although the emotional status of patients appeared to be more resistant to change. Acne appears to be a condition which has the potential to damage, perhaps even in the long term, the emotional functioning of some patients.
Acne is principally a disorder of adolescence but persists into middle age in a small minority of individuals. There is some evidence, primarily from twin studies, to suggest that acne may be an inherited disease. We have carried out an investigation of the familial risk of persistent adult acne by studying the occurrence of this condition in first-degree relatives of patients with adult persistent acne compared with the relatives of unaffected matched controls. Two hundred and four patients over the age of 25, referred to our department with facial acne which had persisted from adolescence, were included in the study. For each patient, a detailed pedigree which included all first-degree relatives was drawn up. For all relatives over the age of 25, demographic details and the presence or absence of facial acne was recorded. One hundred and forty-four unaffected controls were recruited. These were matched with the patient group in terms of age, social class and ethnic origin. The same questions were asked of controls as of the cases, and they provided the same information on their first-degree relatives. In total, 204 acne cases and 144 non-acne control volunteers were studied, contributing 1203 and 856 first-degree relatives, respectively. Two hundred and three first-degree relatives of cases were affected with facial acne, compared with 42 first-degree relatives of volunteers. The risk of adult acne occurring in a relative of a patient with adult acne was significantly greater than for the relative of an unaffected individual (odds ratio 3.93, 95% confidence interval 2.79-5.51; P < 0.001). Our study suggests that familial factors are important in determining individual susceptibility to adult persistent facial acne. Genetic factors may determine the failure of acne-prone follicles to evolve into acne-resistant follicles in early adult life.
Reactive oxygen species generated by neutrophils are closely correlated with the pathogenesis of a variety of inflammatory skin diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible role of reactive oxygen species generated by neutrophils in the mediation of acne inflammation.
Bacterial phagocytotic stimuli, mediated by opsonin activity, were applied to whole blood, and neutrophil hydrogen peroxide production was measured.
Patients with acne inflammation showed a significantly increased level of hydrogen peroxide produced by neutrophils compared to patients with acne comedones and healthy controls. There were no marked differences in the level of hydrogen peroxide produced by neutrophils between patients with acne comedones and healthy controls. In addition, patients with acne inflammation treated by oral administration of minocycline hydrochloride, a drug that inhibits hydrogen peroxide generation by neutrophils, showed a significant decrease in the ability of neutrophils to produce hydrogen peroxide in accordance with a decrease in the inflammatory activity of acne lesions.
The present study seems to suggest that acne inflammation is mediated in part by hydrogen peroxide generation by neutrophils.
The earliest subclinical acne "lesion" is a microcomedone, of which hyperproliferation of the follicular epithelium is a characteristic feature. Inflammatory cells have been observed at the periphery of these "lesions". This study investigated whether inflammatory events occur pre or post hyperproliferative changes. Cellular, vascular, and proliferative markers were examined by immunohistochemical techniques on biopsies of clinically normal follicles from uninvolved skin and early inflamed lesions from acne patients. Control follicles were obtained from non-acne subjects. Follicles from uninvolved skin exhibited no microcomedonal features. Proliferation in the epithelium was comparable to controls and was significantly lower than in inflamed lesions. Numbers of CD3+, CD4+ T cells were elevated in the perifollicular and papillary dermis although levels were not equivalent to those in papules. The number of macrophages was also greatly increased and similar to those in papules. There were no changes in blood vessel numbers or vascular intercellular adhesion molecule 1 expression but E-selectin expression was increased to levels found in papules and vascular adhesion molecule 1 levels were upregulated. Levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 were also upregulated perifollicularly. Moreover, aberrant integrin expression was demonstrated in the epidermis around these uninvolved follicles and inflamed lesions whereas the basement membrane was still intact. These results provide novel evidence for vascular endothelial cell activation and involvement of inflammatory responses in the very earliest stages of acne lesion development.
A causative link between emotional stress and acne has long been postulated. There is mounting evidence that the molecular mechanism underlying this observation is related to the expression of receptors for several neuroendocrine mediators by the sebaceous gland. Recent and ongoing studies have indicated that human sebocytes express functional receptors for corticotropin-releasing hormone, melanocortins, beta-endorphin, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, neuropeptide Y and calcitonin gene-related peptide. After ligand binding, these receptors modulate the production of inflammatory cytokines, proliferation, differentiation, lipogenesis and androgen metabolism in sebocytes. By means of their autocrine, paracrine and endocrine actions, these neuroendocrine factors appear to mediate centrally and topically induced stress towards the sebaceous gland, ultimately affecting the clinical course of acne.
Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease, affecting about 70-80% of adolescents and young adults. It is a multifactorial disease of the pilosebaceous unit.(1) The influence of androgens at the onset of adolescence leads to an enlargement of the sebaceous gland and a rise in sebum production. Additional increased proliferation and altered differentiation of the follicular epithelium eventually blocks the pilosebaceous duct, leading to development of the microcomedo as the primary acne lesion. Concomitantly and subsequently, colonization with Propionibacterium acnes increases, followed by induction of inflammatory reactions from bacteria, ductal corneocytes, and sebaceous proinflammatory agents (Fig 1).(2-5)
Natural health products are promoted to the public as equally or more effective and less toxic than conventional drugs. However, some ‘natural’ medicines are known to have adverse effects.
From April 2002 to August 2007, 18 suspected adverse reactions associated with propolis-containing products were reported to the national surveillance system of natural health products, coordinated by the Italian National Health Institute. Sixteen reports concerned allergic reactions (with dermatological or respiratory symptoms), while two concerned the digestive tract. Some of the reactions were serious: six patients were admitted to hospital or visited an emergency department and in two of these a life-threatening event was reported. In seven patients (four of whom were children), an allergic predisposition was indicated.
Propolis, a resinous substance collected by honeybees from the buds of living plants, has been used for several purposes (dermatitis, laryngitis, oral ulcers) because of its wide range of suggested activities (antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and chemopreventive actions). However, propolis is also a potent sensitizer and should not be used in patients with an allergic predisposition, in particular an allergy to pollen.
In Italy, products containing bee derivatives (bee pollen, royal jelly or propolis) are available to the public as food supplements. No label warning of possible adverse reactions is found on the packaging, although it is well known that atopic and asthmatic individuals may be at an increased risk of allergic reactions after using these products. The public and healthcare practitioners should be aware of the risk of allergic reactions to products derived from bees and a warning should be added to the packaging of these products.
Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-acne activities of stingless bee (Tetragonula biroi) propolis
- E T Arung
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Uso da Própolis na Prevenção e Tratamento da Acne Vulgar
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A histological and immunocytochemical study of early acne lesions
- J F Norris
- W J Cunliffe
Norris JF, Cunliffe WJ. A histological and immunocytochemical study of early acne lesions.
Br J Dermatol. 1988;118(5):651-9.
Significance of topical propolis in the treatment of facial acne vulgaris
- Bmm Ali
- N F Ghoname
- A A Hodeib
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Ali BMM, Ghoname NF, Hodeib AA, Elbadawy MA. Significance of topical propolis in the
treatment of facial acne vulgaris. Egypt J Dermatol Venerol. 2015;35(1):29-36.