Immunomodulatory action of propolis. Influence on anti-infectious protection and macrophage function

The immunomodulatory action of a water-soluble derivative (WSD) of natural propolis was investigated. The oral and parenteral administration of the WSD enhanced the survival rate and the mean survival time in experimental bacterial (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphyllococcus aureus) and fungal (Candida albicans) infections in mice. An increased resistance was observed also in Klebsiella pneumoniae infection induced after cyclophosphamide treatment. The WSD stimulated peritoneal macrophages to produce in vitro interleukin-1, which corresponded to their elevated total protein secretion. In addition, WSD failed to trigger lymphocyte proliferation as determined by popliteal lymph node assay. The WSD was suggested to augment non-specific host defense via macrophage activation