Effects of Anatolian propolis on absence seizures and anxiety in rats with genetic absence epilepsy

Abstract

Background and Aims: Anatolian propolis, which is rich in phenolic compounds, may offer neuroprotective benefits due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study explored how Anatolian propolis affects the frequency of absence seizures and anxiety levels in rats with genetic absence epilepsy from Strasbourg (GAERS). Methods: Adult male GAERS were orally administered Anatolian propolis samples at concentrations of 15% (120 mg/kg/day) and 30% (180 mg/kg/day), whereas the control group received an equivalent volume of tap water by oral gavage for 35 days. A 3-h EEG was recorded 9.00 and 12.00 a.m after 35 days of sub-chronic administration. The effects of Anatolian propolis on spike-and-wave discharge (SWD) duration, number, and mean duration of each SWDs were evaluated and compared with the control group. The elevated plus maze test was then performed to measure the anxiety level of GAERS rats. Finally, brains were isolated, and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) levels were measured in freshly frozen isolated brains using an ELISA method. Results: Oral administration of Anatolian propolis (180 mg/kg/day) significantly reduced the number of SWDs and decreased IL-1β levels in the brain tissue of adult GAERS after 35 days of sub-chronic administration (p<0.05). Propolis treatment did not alter anxiety levels in terms of time spent in the closed and open arms. Conclusion: This study represents an initial exploration of the effects of Anatolian propolis on absence seizures in GAERS. Our findings indicate that Anatolian propolis could offer therapeutic advantages by reducing the levels of the brain’s pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β in GAERS, potentially mitigating absence seizures. However, additional research is necessary to understand the potential mechanisms driving this benefit.

Keywords

• Absence epilepsy
• Anatolian Propolis
• Anxiety
• GAERS
• IL-1β
• Neuroinflammation

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