Extrato bruto de própolis vermelha brasileira: Investigação do potencial antibacteriano, antibiofilme, e avaliação intramacrofágica frente a espécies de micobactérias

Abstract

Tuberculosis remains a significant global health concern, being the primary cause of death from infectious diseases. Controlling the disease is challenging, particularly with the rise of drug-resistant strains. Additionally, non-tuberculous mycobacteria are increasingly causing infections, with limited treatment options available. Brazilian red propolis (BRP) has attracted attention due to its potential antibacterial properties, but its efficacy against the Mycobacterium is largely unexplored. This study aimed to assess the in vitro antimycobacterial potential of BRP’s crude hydroalcoholic extract (CHEBRP), both alone and in association with standard antibiotics. The investigation included determining the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration and Fractional Inhibitory Concentration Index, assessing the inhibition of biofilm formation, evaluating cytotoxicity in Raw 264.7 macrophages, and testing efficacy against intracellular bacilli. CHEBRP showed significant activity against most tested strains, notably against rifampicin-resistant M. tuberculosis. Administering it alongside isoniazid and rifampicin had an indifferent effect, suggesting that its co-administration is feasible, as, in addition to the synergistic action, propolis may offer additional benefits, such as modulation of the immune response. Furthermore, CHEBRP inhibited mycobacterial biofilm formation, demonstrated low cytotoxicity, and effectively eradicated intramacrophagic bacilli. In conclusion, CHEBRP exhibits promising antimycobacterial activity, warranting further research to evaluate its in vivo effects and efficacy against Mycobacterium species.