Context Recent evidence suggests that modulation of the gut microbiota may help prevent colorectal cancer. Objective The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the role of probiotics and synbiotics in the prevention of colorectal cancer and to clarify potential mechanisms involved. Data Sources The PubMed, ScienceDirect, and LILACS databases were searched for studies conducted in humans or animal models and published up to August 15, 2018. Study Selection Clinical trials and placebo-controlled experimental studies that evaluated the effects of probiotics and synbiotics in colorectal cancer and cancer associated with inflammatory bowel disease were included. Of 247 articles identified, 31 remained after exclusion criteria were applied. A search of reference lists identified 5 additional studies, for a total of 36 included studies. Data Extraction Two authors independently assessed risk of bias of included studies and extracted data. Data were pooled by type of study, ie, preclinical or clinical. Results The results showed positive effects of probiotics and synbiotics in preventing colorectal cancer. The main mechanisms identified were alterations in the composition and metabolic activity of the intestinal microbiota; reduction of inflammation; induction of apoptosis and inhibition of tumor growth; modulation of immune responses and cell proliferation; enhanced function of the intestinal barrier; production of compounds with anticarcinogenic activity; and modulation of oxidative stress. Conclusions Probiotics or synbiotics may help prevent colorectal cancer, but additional studies in humans are required to better inform clinical practice.

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Among the 13 types of propolis classified in Brazil according to their physicochemical properties, green propolis and brown propolis are the most commonly found and used. In this work, a comparison of the physicochemical properties of green and brown propolis produced in Minas Gerais, Brazil was performed according to the methodology established by the Brazilian legislation. And, the content of 9 bioactive compounds in the samples was determined by RP‐HPLC. GrProp showed a higher content of pinocembrin, artepillin C and baccharin, and a higher quantity of total flavonoids, in comparison with BrwProp. The mechanical mass content in both types of propolis was above the limit established by legislation. However, the other physicochemical parameters were within the limits. The chemical composition, especially the flavonoid content and the free radical (DPPH) scavenger property confer to both types of propolis a promising pharmacological activity.

Background: Diseases associated to Candida spp. are recurrent and can be difficult to treat, mainly due to the new strains resistant to the limited number of available antifungals. Objective: Evaluate the in vitro and in vivo activity of Brazilian green propolis (GrProp) and red propolis (RdProp) ethanolic extracts against standard strains of Candida albicans, C. tropicalis, C. krusei, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis and 10 clinical isolates of C. albicans. Methods: Antifungal activity in vitro was tested using the M-27-A3/CLSI protocol. The in vivo antifungal activity was evaluated using Tenebrio molitor model. And, the effect of extracts on adhesion of C. albicans in human buccal epithelial cells (BECs) was also studied. Results: GrProp and RdProp exhibited antifungal activity against at least one of the Candida strains tested. The adhesion inhibition of C. albicans in BECs was of 45% (GrProp28), 60% (GrProp50) and of 82% (RdProp), in comparison to amphotericin B (82%). All propolis extracts showed synergistic activity with fluconazole and amphotericin B. GrProp50 (10 mg/kg) showed the better protection of T. molitor, blocking the progression of C. albicans infection, increasing survival and delayed the larvae death. Conclusion: Brazilian GrProp and RdProp extracts inhibit the in vitro C. albicans growth and protect T. molitor against infection by this yeast. The physiochemical parameters found for the analyzed samples were in accordance to the standards established by the Brazilian Legislation for propolis and derivatives. GrProp and RdProp have potential to be used against Candida spp. infections, mainly in association with fluconazole or amphotericin B.