THE ACTION OF IRAQI PROPOLIS ON THE SPECIFIC ACTIVITY OF ADENOSINE DEAMINASE ENZYME IN ALBINO MICE

The action of propolis in the specific activity of adenosine deaminase (ADA; EC 3.5.4.4) in albino mice was investigated. Two oral administrations (10 and 20 mg/kg/day) of Iraqi propolis extract with two control groups were used. Treatment with propolis enhanced the specific activity of ADA enzyme in serum, thymus and spleen as compared to control groups; the stimulation was greater at the higher dose. While, treatment with Mitomycin C; MMC (positive control) under similar condition caused a highly significant inhibition in activity of ADA in serum, thymus and spleen as compared to negative control. This study indicates that Iraqi propolis extract may potentiate immunity with the modulation of adenosinergic system through increasing splenic and thymic ADA enzyme activity.