This article contains findings obtained from research on animals:
- The results from animal research studies should not be directly applied to humans and the results may not generalise to the human population.
- There may be significant differences between species in terms of physiology, physiology, and pharmacology, as well as differences in the way diseases and treatments are modelled in animals.
- Any conclusions drawn from animal research should be considered with caution and in the context of other types of research studies such as observational studies, clinical trials, and reviews of the literature.
Insights & Discussion
Manuka honey has demonstrated the potential to inhibit the proliferation of human breast cancer cells and stimulate apoptosis in these cells.
In the experiment, Manuka honey was applied to three different types of cells: MCF-7 human breast cancer cells, MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, and non-malignant human mammary epithelial cells. The concentrations applied ranged from 0.3 to 5.0% to observe different effects. In addition to inhibiting cancer cell proliferation, the honey was tested for its ability to cause apoptosis (cell death) among the MCF-7 cells. It was also compared to the effects of tamoxifen, an antiestrogen medication used in breast cancer treatment.
The results showed that Manuka honey was able to significantly inhibit the proliferation of MCF-7 cells, though its effects were less pronounced in the MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. The non-malignant cells were not affected. The honey's antitumor activity was comparable to that of tamoxifen. Moreover, Manuka honey stimulated apoptosis in the MCF-7 cells. It was also observed that the honey activated AMPK, which inhibits specific cellular growth signals, and reduced STAT3 levels, a protein often elevated in tumors.
Discover Related Insights
Clinical studies related to breast cancer have revealed that honey is effective in increasing blood cell counts, interleukin-3 levels, and quality of life.
2023 Antioxidants Honey: A Promising Therapeutic Supplement for the Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis and Breast Cancer Martiniakova M, Kovacova V, Mondockova V, Zemanova N, Babikova M, Biro R, et al.
Clinical Study Breast Cancer Honey Osteoporosis
In relation to breast cancer, in vitro experiments revealed the anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic impact of honey on breast cancer cells, as well as their increased apoptosis. Animal studies have shown that honey reduces the number, growth rate, volume, and tumor weight. Findings from clinical trials reported its immunomodulatory properties showing that honey is effective in increasing leukocyte and platelet counts, IL-3 levels, and quality of life. In this context, the potential role of honey and its oligosaccharides as prebiotics for specific beneficial bacteria might be examined in future clinical studies.
Preclinical studies related to osteoporosis have reported favorable effects of honey on cortical and trabecular bone microstructure, bone strength, and oxidative stress.
2023 Antioxidants Honey: A Promising Therapeutic Supplement for the Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis and Breast Cancer Martiniakova M, Kovacova V, Mondockova V, Zemanova N, Babikova M, Biro R, et al.
Clinical Study Breast Cancer Honey Osteoporosis
Honey is able to protect the bone mainly due to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, primarily through its content of polyphenols, which act on several signaling pathways, resulting in anabolic and antiresorptive effects. From the group of polyphenols, the anti-osteoporotic impact of quercetin, kaempferol, and luteolin was recorded. In addition, vitamin D3 and its hydroxyderivatives with antioxidant properties were also detected in honey. Vitamin D3 supplementation was found to have protective effects on the inhibition of bone loss and BMD in both experimental animals and postmenopausal women.