Potencial acción ateroprotectora de algunos productos apícolas

Abstract

Atherosclerosis is a chronic disease of complex etiology, with multifactorial character and complex etiology
that constitutes the main cause of mortality in occidental countries and Cuba. In the initial phases occurs the atherogenic
lipoproteins retention in the arterial intima, where oxidative and hydrolytic changes are favored and consequently
alter their biological properties and homeostasis of the arterial wall at focal level. Oxidative stress can be defined as an
alteration in the balance of pro-oxidants/anti-oxidants, with a predominance of pro-oxidants. It has been reported that
it is positively associated with disease progression. An appropriate supply of foods and/or natural extracts rich in antioxidants
are a good alternative for its modulation. Bee products (honeys, propolis and pollen) of different geographical
origins (including Cuba) are rich in antioxidant compounds (enzymes, some vitamins, amino acids and polyphenols) but
its composition and concentration depend mainly of its botanical origin. Because these products may protect the body
from oxidative stress through the creation of a potentially antioxidant barrier, its evaluation as potential atheroprotective
agents is of great scientific interest. In this sense, numerous studies demonstrate the presence of compounds with antioxidant
properties in considerable quantities in honeys, propolis and bee pollen of Cuba and other countries and their
potential atheroprotective effects.