Protective effects of propolis on chronic alcoholic liver injury and its mechanism

Objective To investigate the protective effects of propolis on chronic alcoholic liver injury in rat and its mechanisms. Methods Thirty male SD rats were randomly and evenly divided into control group,model group,and propolis group.The control group was administered intragastrically with normal saline,the model group,56° Red Star Erguotou,and the propolis group,52° Red Star Erguotou and propolis(1.0 g/(kg·d)) simultaneously.The challenge was lasted for 12w and then all the rats were sacrificed to get the specimens.Serum ALT and AST and the activity of SOD and MDA in liver tissue were detected. Results(1)Serum ALT and AST levels in the model group were significantly higher than those in control group(P0.05).Serum ALT and AST levels in propolis group were significantly lower than those in the model group(P0.05);(2)Liver tissue SOD levels in the model group were significantly lower than those in the control group(P0.05),propolis group than the model group,SOD activity significantly increased(P0.05);model group,liver tissue MDA were significantly higher(P 0.05),MDA content in propolis group was significantly lower than model group(P0.05). Conclusion Propolis that has protective effects can strengthen the liver tissue to remove the ability of oxygen free radicals,reduce lipid peroxidation in liver tissue in response to chronic alcohol-induced liver injury.