Investigating the therapeutic effects of honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) venom on experimental peritoneal adhesions

This thesis investigated the therapeutic effects of honeybee venom (apitoxin) on postoperative peritoneal adhesions, a common surgical complication. Utilizing an experimental animal model, the study aimed to elucidate the modulatory role of apitoxin on tissue healing and inflammation. A total of 36 male Wistar albino rats were divided into six groups and treated with varying doses of apitoxin, saline, or standard therapeutic agents. The peritoneal adhesion model was induced by surgically abrading the cecal surface, and macroscopic adhesion evaluation was conducted 21 days postoperatively using the Nair scoring system. Plasma levels of MDA and GSH were measured, while tissue concentrations of hydroxyproline, tPA, and PAI-1 were analyzed via ELISA. Cognitive function was also assessed using the Novel Object Recognition (NOR) test. The results demonstrated that both a single dose of CHA and varying doses of bee venom significantly reduced peritoneal adhesion scores. Notably, the 0.25 mg/kg dose of bee venom (Venom 25) led to marked reductions in macroscopic adhesion and hydroxyproline levels, indicating strong anti-fibrotic efficacy. Regarding oxidative stress parameters, GSH levels were preserved in the Venom 25 and CHA groups, suggesting enhanced antioxidant defense, whereas a decline observed in the Venom 50 group indicated potential adverse effects at higher doses. NOR test outcomes revealed preserved cognitive function and reduced central nervous system inflammation in the Venom 25 group. Conversely, administration of bee venom at 0.50 mg/kg via abdominal lavage resulted in high mortality, highlighting the systemic toxicity risk of this application. Overall, macroscopic, biochemical, and behavioral findings indicate that both CHA single dose and especially the 0.25 mg/kg bee venom treatment effectively prevent peritoneal adhesions while positively modulating oxidative balance and cognitive function. In conclusion, this study identifies CHA single dose and particularly the 0.25 mg/kg dose of bee venom as effective, safe, and multifaceted therapeutic options for preventing postoperative peritoneal adhesions. The underlying mechanisms likely involve suppression of inflammation, reduction of collagen accumulation, regulation of oxidative stress, and preservation of cognitive functions. These findings provide a valuable foundation for future clinical and mechanistic investigations.