Propolis Integration Methods into Solutions for Highly Loaded Propolis Fibers by Needleless Electrospinning.

Zane Zelca, Silvija Kukle, Sarmite Janceva, Laimdota Vilcena
Author Information
  1. Zane Zelca: Institute of Design Technology, Faculty of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry, Riga Technical University, Kipsala Street 6, LV-1084 Riga, Latvia. ORCID
  2. Silvija Kukle: Institute of Design Technology, Faculty of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry, Riga Technical University, Kipsala Street 6, LV-1084 Riga, Latvia.
  3. Sarmite Janceva: Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry, Dzerbenes Street 27, LV-1006 Riga, Latvia.
  4. Laimdota Vilcena: Institute of Design Technology, Faculty of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry, Riga Technical University, Kipsala Street 6, LV-1084 Riga, Latvia. ORCID

Abstract

A load-bearing matrix filled with biologically active compounds is an efficient method for transporting them to the target location. Bee-made propolis has long been known as a natural product with antibacterial and antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antifungal properties, and anti-oxidative activity. The aim of the research is to obtain stable propolis/PVA solutions and produce fibers by electrospinning. To increase propolis content in fibers as much as possible, various types of propolis extracts were used. As a result of the research, micro- and nano-fiber webs were obtained, the possible use of which have biomedical and bioprotective applications. All used materials are edible and safe for humans, and fiber webs were prepared without using any toxic agent. This strategy overcomes propolis processing problems due to limitations to its solubility. The integration of different combinations of extracts allows more than 73 wt% of propolis to be incorporated into the fibers. The spinning solution preparation method was adapted to each type of propolis, and by combining the methods, solutions with different propolis extracts were obtained. Firstly, the total content of flavonoids in the propolis extracts was determined for the assessment and prediction of bioactivity. The properties of the extracts relevant for the preparation of electrospinning solutions were also evaluated. Secondly, the most appropriate choice of PVA molecular weight was made in order not to subject the propolis to too high temperatures (to save resources and not reduce the bioactivity of propolis) during the solution preparation process and to obtain fibers with the smallest possible diameter (for larger surface-to-volume ratios of nanofibers and high porosity). Third, electrospinning solutions were evaluated (viscosity, pH, conductivity and density, shelf life) before and after the addition of propolis to predict the maximum propolis content in the fibers and spinning stability. Each solution combination was spun using a cylindrical type electrode (suitable for industrial production) and tested for a stable electrospinning process. Using adapted solution-mixing sequences, all the obtained solutions were spun stably, and homogeneous fibers were obtained without major defects.

Keywords

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Grants

  1. No. 1.1.1.2/VIAA/4/20/648/European Regional Development Fund

MeSH Term

Nanofibers
Plant Extracts
Porosity
Propolis
Viscosity

Chemicals

Plant Extracts
Propolis

Word Cloud

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