Screening Stingless Bee Honey for ACE2-Spike Inhibition Activity
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Screening of Selected Stingless Bee Honey Varieties for ACE2-Spike Protein-Binding Inhibition Activity: A Potential Preventive Medicine Against SARS-Cov-2 Infection
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Enos Tangke Arung, Rico Ramadhan, Liidza Diana Mandzilkh, Prasetia Aktavinaldy Santoso, Masako Matsumoto, Maki Nagata, Irawan Wijaya Kusuma, Swandari Paramita, Sukemi, Yadi, Naomichi Takemoto, Yhiya Amen, Syafrizal, Kuniyoshi Shimizu, Nataniel Tandirogang
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: Screening of Selected Stingless Bee Honey Varieties for ACE2-Spike Protein-Binding Inhibition Activity: A Potential Preventive Medicine Against SARS-Cov-2 Infection
Year: 2022 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2022.29.5.15
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study investigates the potential of stingless bee honey as a natural inhibitor of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, which has become a global health crisis since its emergence in December 2019. The researchers collected and screened 12 honey samples from 11 species of stingless bees for their ability to inhibit the binding of the ACE2 receptor to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. This was executed using an ACE2-spike protein-binding assay and phytochemical analysis, aiming to find alternative strategies in combating COVID-19, especially given the pandemic's ongoing challenges and the emergence of new variants.
Phytochemical Compounds in Stingless Bee Honey
The results highlighted that 10 out of the 12 honey samples demonstrated significant inhibition of spike protein binding, most notably those from Wallacetrigona incisa (bitter taste) and Tetragonula testaceitarsis, which yielded inhibition rates above 70%. Phytochemical testing revealed the presence of various compounds, including flavonoids and carbohydrates, that may contribute to these inhibitory effects. Specifically, it was observed that honey with higher coumarin content showed greater potential for inhibiting the spike protein binding, leading to the hypothesis that phytochemicals in stingless bee honey could be exploited for therapeutic applications against SARS-CoV-2.
Conclusion
In conclusion, stingless bee honey exhibits promising properties as an inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 by potentially interfering with ACE2-spike protein binding. The in vitro findings suggest that with further research, these honeys could represent a valuable resource in the fight against COVID-19. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding the active compounds and their mechanisms of action, advocating for expanded research to explore their effects on viral transmission and therapeutic applications.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the purpose of this study on stingless bee honey?
The study aimed to identify natural materials, specifically stingless bee honey, that may inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection through its effects on ACE2-spike protein-binding.
What results were found regarding the honey samples tested?
Out of 12 honey samples tested, 10 showed more than 50% inhibition of ACE2-spike protein-binding, indicating potential efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
What phytochemicals are present in the studied honey samples?
The honey samples contained various phytochemicals, including tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, triterpenoids, carotenoids, and carbohydrates, which may contribute to their antiviral properties.
How did honey samples perform at different concentrations in assays?
At higher concentrations, some honey samples, particularly from Wallacetrigona incisa, demonstrated significantly higher inhibition rates, suggesting a dose-response relationship in ACE2-spike protein-binding inhibition.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Screening Stingless Bee Honey for ACE2-Spike Inhibition Activity”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Honey:
Honey is a natural sweet substance produced by honey bees from nectar. In the context of this study, honey from stingless bees is highlighted for its potential health benefits, particularly in inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 infection. Its unique composition may offer protective properties against various diseases and infections.
2) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds found in plants that contribute to various health benefits. In this study, the phytochemical analysis of stingless bee honey is essential as these compounds, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins, may play a critical role in inhibiting the binding of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to ACE2.
3) Table:
Tables are used to organize and present data clearly and concisely. In this research, tables summarize the hypertochemical content across different samples of stingless bee honey, allowing for quick reference to which compounds are present, their concentrations, and thereby their potential biological activities related to COVID-19 inhibition.
4) Bitter:
The term 'bitter' refers to one of the sensory characteristics of certain foods or substances, including some types of honey. In this study, honey with a bitter taste demonstrated significant inhibition of ACE2-spike protein binding, indicating its potential efficacy in combating SARS-CoV-2 infection relative to sweeter varieties.
5) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a class of phytochemicals found widely in plants and are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. The presence of flavonoids in stingless bee honey may contribute to the honey's effectiveness in inhibiting the binding of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to human ACE2 receptors.
6) Viru:
The term 'viru' appears to refer to 'virus' in this context, especially concerning SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19. Understanding how different substances, like stingless bee honey, can inhibit viral infection at the cellular level is key to developing effective treatments and preventive strategies against viral diseases.
7) Activity:
In the context of this study, 'activity' refers to the biological effects exhibited by substances, such as honey, against pathogens like SARS-CoV-2. The ACE2-spike protein-binding inhibition activity of the honey indicates its potential effectiveness in preventing the virus from entering human cells and causing infection.
8) Disease:
Disease refers to a pathological condition that affects the body or mind, often causing significant impairment. In this study, the focus is on COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Understanding potential treatments, including natural remedies like stingless bee honey, can aid in disease management and prevention.
9) Study (Studying):
A 'study' is a systematic investigation to establish facts or principles regarding a subject. This particular study aims to explore the potential antiviral properties of stingless bee honey, providing valuable insights into alternative therapies for COVID-19 and enhancing understanding of plant-derived substances in virology.
10) Water:
Water is a crucial component in the preparation and analysis of honey samples in this study. It serves as a solvent to dilute honey for assays, enabling the evaluation of its phytochemical composition and biological activities, crucial for determining its effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 binding.
11) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial agents combat the growth of bacteria and prevent infections. Although this study primarily focuses on antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, the antibacterial properties of the phytochemicals found in honey may also contribute to its overall health benefits, showcasing honey's broad therapeutic potential.
12) Species:
In the context of this study, 'species' refers to different types of stingless bees from which honey samples were collected. Each species may produce honey with unique phytochemical profiles and biological activities, representing a diverse array of potential antiviral constituents against SARS-CoV-2.
13) Cancer:
Cancer is a complex group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. Previous studies on stingless bee honey have indicated cytotoxic effects against certain cancer cell lines, suggesting that its phytochemicals could offer therapeutic benefits beyond antimicrobial activity, highlighting the honey's potential in cancer treatment.
14) Cina:
China is significant in this study as the origin of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which was first identified in Wuhan in December 2019. Understanding the global implications of this virus helps underscore the urgency of identifying effective prevention and treatment strategies, including natural remedies like honey.
15) Line:
In scientific contexts, a 'line' might refer to a lineage of cell lines or organisms used for research. This term can also denote a continuity of discussion or results demonstrated throughout the study, particularly when referring to data on the efficacy of honey against viral binding.
16) Drug:
A drug is a substance that produces a physiological effect when introduced into the body, often used for treatment or prevention of diseases. This study explores the natural properties of honey to determine whether it could act as a drug-like agent with the potential to inhibit COVID-19 infection.
17) Substance:
A substance can refer to any material with a definite chemical composition. In this study, the honey from stingless bees is the primary substance under investigation, focused on its chemical composition and potential health benefits, particularly concerning its antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2.
18) Adhikarin (Adhikari):
Adhikari is likely a reference to one of the authors or contributors involved in the study. The contributions of various individuals—including researchers, technicians, and collaborators—are crucial for the successful execution, analysis, and interpretation of scientific investigations like those exploring the efficacy of honey against viral infections.
19) Quality:
Quality in the context of honey refers to its purity, nutrient content, and health-promoting properties. This study underscores the importance of assessing the quality of stingless bee honey in determining its efficacy and safety as a potential natural treatment against COVID-19.
20) Trigona (Tri-gona):
Trigona refers to a genus of stingless bees. The honey produced by different species within this genus, including Trigona, is examined for its unique phytochemical properties and potential applications in antiviral treatment. Each species may yield honey with varied medicinal effects against pathogens.
21) Surface:
In scientific studies, 'surface' may denote the outer boundary of cells where viral entry occurs. The interaction between SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins and ACE2 receptors on the cell surface is crucial in understanding how honey can inhibit this process and provide potential therapeutic effects.
22) Nature:
Nature encompasses the physical world and its inherent phenomena. The study investigates natural products, specifically honey from stingless bees, to explore their antiviral properties. Natural remedies may play a significant role in health and wellness, especially during viral outbreaks such as COVID-19.
23) Avila:
Avila likely refers to one of the authors or contributors to the research. Each author's expertise and involvement in the study add to the depth of research on stingless bee honey and its health properties, which is crucial to the integrity of scientific exploration.
24) Sugar:
Sugar in honey primarily consists of fructose and glucose, contributing to its sweetness and energy content. This research examines the broader implications of honey beyond its palatable qualities, exploring how its sugar content, combined with phytochemicals, may influence biological activity against viral infections.
25) Guti:
Guti could refer to an author or contributor to the study. Each individual's expertise in different aspects of the research contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the potential health benefits of stingless bee honey and supports the study's findings on its antiviral properties.
26) Miṇi (Mini):
The term 'mini' may suggest a smaller scope or focused aspect of the research, possibly referring to specific studies or reviews involving stingless bee honey. A mini-review consolidates existing knowledge while identifying gaps needing further exploration, particularly in health-related applications.
27) Shan (San):
Shan is likely an author among the contributors to the study. Contributions from various authors enhance the research's depth by bringing diverse insights and expertise to the investigation of stingless bee honey and its potential medicinal properties against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
28) Food:
Food encompasses substances that are consumed for nutritional support. In this study, stingless bee honey is explored not only as a food product but also for its potential health benefits, particularly in combating viral infections, illustrating the broader perspective of food as medicine.
29) Hadi:
Hadi may refer to an author or contributor involved in the research. The collaboration of multiple individuals with expertise contributes to the credibility of the study, enriching the understanding of the medicinal effects of stingless bee honey as it relates to health and disease prevention.
30) Chan:
Chan likely denotes an author or contributor to the research. Contributions from various individuals help ensure a thorough analysis of the potential health benefits of stingless bee honey, guiding the reader towards understanding its significance in addressing public health challenges like COVID-19.
31) Transmission:
Transmission refers to the spread of infectious diseases. This study focuses on understanding potential natural remedies, such as stingless bee honey, that may inhibit the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, offering insights into alternative methods for reducing the spread of viral infections during pandemics.
32) Agriculture:
Agriculture involves the cultivation of food and materials. The relationship between agriculture and natural products like stingless bee honey highlights the significance of sustainable practices for preserving biodiversity and harnessing natural resources that may provide health benefits against viral infections.
33) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the section within research where findings are interpreted and contextualized. This study's discussion examines the implications of the results on the antiviral properties of stingless bee honey, emphasizing the relevance of these findings in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
34) Education:
Education in a research context involves disseminating knowledge and findings from studies. This study contributes to broader educational efforts by enhancing understanding of stingless bee honey's properties and potential health benefits, potentially influencing future research and public health practices.
35) Epidemic:
An epidemic refers to a widespread occurrence of an infectious disease in a community. The context of this study arises from the COVID-19 epidemic, emphasizing the urgent need for effective treatment and prevention strategies, including exploring the antiviral properties of natural substances like honey.
36) Relative:
Relative may refer to associated factors or comparative analyses within the research. In the context of this study, it might be used to establish the effectiveness of stingless bee honey relative to known drugs or treatments in inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 infection.
37) Kindness:
Kindness may refer to the contributions of individuals who provided honey samples for the study. The collaborative spirit emphasizes the importance of community and sharing resources in scientific research, highlighting the interconnected nature of health, environment, and mutual support.
38) Village:
Villages can refer to local communities where honey is sourced from stingless bees. The geographical and environmental conditions of these areas may influence the phytochemical makeup of honey, thereby affecting its biological activities and potential health benefits against diseases like COVID-19.
39) Mineral:
Minerals are essential nutrients present in honey that contribute to its overall health benefits. This study may consider the presence of minerals in stingless bee honey as part of its nutritional profile, enhancing its potential therapeutic properties against various illnesses.
40) Science (Scientific):
Science is the systematic pursuit of knowledge through research and experimentation. This study exemplifies the scientific method by investigating the properties of stingless bee honey as a natural remedy, blending disciplines such as biology, chemistry, and public health to provide insights into combating infectious diseases.
41) Arishta (Arista):
Arista refers to an author or contributor associated with the research. The collaborative efforts of various researchers, including Arista, serve to enhance the study of stingless bee honey and its potential applications in public health, specifically against COVID-19.
42) Forest:
Forests are vital ecosystems that support biodiversity and are often where stingless bees collect nectar. The environmental factors associated with forests may influence the quality and composition of honey produced, impacting its health benefits and potential efficacy against viral infections.
43) Aroma (A-roma):
Aroma refers to the distinctive scent of honey, which can vary based on nectar sources. In this study, different aromas associated with honey could relate to its phytochemical content and may also influence its biological activity in inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 binding.
44) Rules:
Rules can refer to the established guidelines or methodologies followed in scientific research. This study adheres to scientific rules and protocols in conducting experiments, ensuring that data collection, analysis, and interpretations are rigorously performed to uphold the research's validity.
45) Pine (Pimte):
Pine may refer to a particular aromatic characteristic derived from specific flora contributing to the nectar that bees utilize. In the context of this study, the unique properties of honey sourced from pine-related plants may have significant implications in its overall phytochemical composition and bioactivity.
46) Sour:
Sour describes another taste characteristic that may be present in some honeys, which can reflect the diversity of floral sources. Such sensory profiles of honey, including its sourness, can help correlate the composition of phytochemicals and their potential health benefits in fighting infections.
47) Post:
Post generally refers to something located behind or after. In scientific literature, it could imply the consideration of future research directions or implications that arise from a study's findings, directing attention toward subsequent investigations surrounding the role of stingless bee honey in health.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Screening Stingless Bee Honey for ACE2-Spike Inhibition Activity’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Therapeutic effect, Natural materials, Phytochemical analysis, In vitro study, Positive control, Dose Dependent Inhibition, Cancer cell line, SARS-CoV-2 Infection, Travel restrictions, Phytochemical compound.