Steve Harakeh
King Abdulaziz University, KSA
Title: Effects of Manuka Honey on Gastric Ulcers in Rats
Biography
Biography: Steve Harakeh
Abstract
Background & Objectives: Gastric ulcers are among the most common diseases affecting humans. This study aimed at investigating the gastro protective effects of manuka honey against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats. The mechanism by which honey exerts its antiulcer potential was elucidated.
Methods: Four groups of rats were used: control, ethanol (ulcer), omeprazole, and manuka honey. Stomachs were examined macroscopically for hemorrhagic lesions in the glandular mucosa, histopathological changes, and glycoprotein detection. The effects of oxidative stress were investigated using the following indicators: gastric mucosal nitric oxide (NO), reduced glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxide (MDA, measured as malondialdehyde) glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. Plasma tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and IL-6 were also measured.
Results: Manuka honey significantly decreased the ulcer index, completely protected the mucosa from lesions, and preserved gastric mucosal glycoprotein. It significantly increased gastric mucosal levels of NO, GSH, GPx, and SOD. Manuka honey also decreased gastric mucosal MDA and plasma TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 concentrations.
Conclusion: Manuka honey likely exerted its antiulcer effect by keeping enzymatic (GPx and SOD) and non-enzymatic (GSH and NO) antioxidants as well as inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) in a reduced form, inhibited lipid peroxidation (MDA), and preserved mucous glycoproteins levels.