Antioxidant properties and protective effect of Turkish propolis on t-BHP-induced oxidative stress in foreskin fibroblast cells

Objective: Propolis is an important bee product, rich in polyphenolic compounds. It has antitumoral, antioxidant, antimutagenic, and other useful activities. Biological activities of propolis are generally attributed to its substance of polyphenolic compounds. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro antioxidant properties and reduction amount of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in human normal foreskin fibroblast cells by Turkish propolis ethanolic extract (EEP). Method: Total phenolic and flavonoid contents, reducing power, radical scavenging capacity, and iron chelating activity of EEP were determined using spectrophotometric methods. Intracellular ROS levels were determined by spectrofluorometric analysis with CM-H2 DCFDA. Results: Our results indicated that antioxidant activity was correlated with the higher total phenolic and flavonoid contents of EEP. The generated ROS levels were significantly decreased by EEP compared to only t-BHP group. Conclusion: Ethanolic propolis extract may be evaluated as a potency antioxidant resource and/or a novel natural agent in food and drug industries.