Lipase-mediated lipid removal from propolis extract and its antiradical and antimicrobial activity

BACKGROUND: Propolis contains many antioxidants such as polyphenols and flavonoids. However, propolis-derived lipid components interrupt an efficient isolation of antioxidants from propolis extract. We examined the effectiveness of various lipase treatments for the removal of lipids from propolis extract and evaluated the biological features of the extract. RESULTS: Lipase OF and Novozyme 435 treatments did not reduce fatty acid level in propolis extract. However, Lipozyme TL IM-treated propolis extract showed a significant decrease in fatty acid level, suggesting the removal of lipids. Lipozyme RM IM also significantly decreased the fatty acid level of the extract, but was accompanied by the reduction of polyphenols and flavonoids, which are antioxidants. In Lipozyme TL IM treatment, an increase in active flavonoids, such as Artepillin C and kaempferide, was observed, with a slight increase of ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) radical-scavenging activity. In addition, antimicrobial activity towards skin health-related bacteria such as Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes was enhanced by Lipozyme TL IM treatment. CONCLUSION: Lipozyme TL IM treatment effectively removes lipids from propolis extract and enhances antibacterial activity. Therefore, we suggest that Lipozyme TL IM is a useful lipase for lipid removal of propolis extract.