Introduction: Methotrexate (MTX) has been widely used as an effective chemotherapeutic agent, but because of its side effects, there is a continuous intention to lessen its toxicity. MTX has muco-toxic effects on salivary gland causing dysfunction. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is an economical and autogenous source of growth factors used in tissue repair. Natural product as propolis is considered as an alternative medical tool that has great effect on human health.
Aim of the Work: To examine the effect of PRP versus propolis on submandibular salivary glands (SMSG) in rats given MTX.
Material and Method: 28 male Albino rats weighting 100-150 g, were divided equally into four groups; Control group (Gp I): rats received no drugs. MTX group (Gp II): The rats were given a single intraperitoneal injection of MTX (80 mg/Kg). PRP treated MTX group (Gp III): The rats received MTX as group II, then after 48 h, the rats were given a single subcutaneous injection of PRP (0.5 ml/kg). Propolis treated MTX group (Gp IV): The rats received MTX as group II, then after 48 h, the rats were given orally a single daily dose of propolis (300 mg/kg). After six days from MTX injection, half of SMSG specimens were processed and stained by Hematoxylin & Eosin (H&E) and Anti-Caspase 3. The other half of specimens were examined by transmission electron microscope (TEM).
Results: SMSG of Gp II showed significant histological and ultrastructure alterations with significant increase in area percentage of positive reaction to Anti-Caspase 3 compared to Gp I. In treated groups, Gp III & Gp IV, SMSG showed histological and ultrastructure improvements with significant decrease in area percentage of positive reaction to Anti-Caspase 3 compared to Gp II.
Conclusion: Administration of PRP and propolis with MTX have effective therapeutic strategy in improving the detrimental effects of MTX on SMSG.