A Fantastic Experience at the 4th International Propolis Research Group (IPRG) Conference in Brazil by Dr. Bhagyashree Kamble, Senior Research Scientist at Nature's Laboratory
13 March 2025
Photo above: Participants of the 4th IPRG Conference in Brazil
A Warm Welcome in Ribeirão Preto, the "bee-friendly city" for the 4th IPRG Conference
I recently had the incredible opportunity to attend the 4th International Propolis Research Group (IPRG) Conference in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil, and what an unforgettable experience it was! From the moment I arrived, I was immersed in a perfect balance of cutting-edge science, rich cultural experiences, and the vibrant energy of Brazil. Ribeirão Preto is a delightful and vibrant city in Brazil, known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and promise to sustainability. Often referred to as a "bee-friendly city," Ribeirão Preto stands out for its environmental initiatives, including efforts to preserve bee populations and promote biodiversity. Nestled in São Paulo state, it offers a perfect blend of urban development and natural beauty, making it an ideal location for the International Propolis Research Group to gather. The city's commitment to sustainability and its welcoming atmosphere makes it an exceptional host for global research and collaboration.
A Regimented Event
The conference was flawlessly organized, showcasing the best of The University of São Paulo in the Ribeirão Preto campus, which is widely recognized for both its lovely park-like scenery and its academic excellence with Brazilian hospitality and efficiency. The venue was stunning, and the atmosphere was charged with excitement as experts, researchers, and enthusiasts from around the world gathered to share insights and discuss the latest developments in the world of propolis research.
Everything about the conference—from the registration process to the sessions themselves—was well-planned, ensuring that participants could focus on what truly mattered: learning and interacting. It was clear that a lot of thought had been put into making this event as seamless and enjoyable as possible.
Photo above: Dr Bhagyashree Kamble with several other participants of the IPRG conference.
Propolis Science at the Forefront
A Global Collaboration: Researchers Leading the Way in Health Innovation
One of the most inspiring aspects of the International Propolis Research Group Conference was the opportunity to witness the global collaboration of researchers who are working tirelessly to explore the potential of propolis in improving health outcomes. Researchers from all over the world came together to present their latest findings, and it was clear that every one of them is deeply committed to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation in the field.
Throughout the conference, I was struck by how effectively and efficiently each researcher presented their work. From groundbreaking studies on propolis's antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to its promising role in cancer treatment, skin care, and for the treatment of chronic kidney failure, the depth of research was nothing short of impressive. It was evident that each researcher is not just contributing to their respective field but also working with a shared goal in mind; to translate their findings into clinical practice and make a real-world impact on health.
Most noticeable was the persistent pursuit of excellence. Researchers presented new approaches to harnessing the therapeutic power of propolis, including novel extraction techniques and innovative applications in pharmaceuticals. Their work was a testament to the long hours, meticulous attention to detail, and collaborative efforts that are essential for turning scientific discoveries into tangible health solutions.
Photo above: Dr Bhagyashree Kamble presenting her research at the conference
I had the opportunity as an invited speaker to present a piece of research work which we conducted in collaboration with the University of Bradford, addressing antimicrobial resistance. I spoke about this research and the development of a propolis-incorporated formulation which we are exploring to overcome the global healthcare challenge of antimicrobial resistance. This research was very much appreciated by the conference attendees.
Photo above: Dr. Bhagyashree Kamble receiving her certificate in recognition of presenting her research, from Dr Andresa Berretta.
Translation of Research from Lab to Clinic
A crucial theme of the conference was the translation of research from the lab to the clinic. It was exciting to hear about studies that are already showing real promise in clinical settings. Several researchers highlighted their ongoing work to bring propolis-based treatments to healthcare systems worldwide. For example, formulations of propolis are being tested for their ability to support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and even aid in treating some major illnesses such as fasciitis in children from African regions. Early clinical trials showed encouraging results, which visibly touched the audience during the presentation.
The sense of dedication and passion amongst the researchers was palpable. It’s clear that the collective goal is to create evidence-based solutions that address pressing health issues, and many researchers are not only focused on understanding the properties of propolis but also on developing sustainable, effective treatments that can be widely implemented. They are bridging the gap between science and patient care, showing us how the power of nature, combined with rigorous research, can lead to meaningful advancements in medicine.
The highlight of the conference was, without a doubt, the scientific presentations. Experts working on exploring various dimension of propolis presented their research on its properties, benefits, and applications. I was particularly impressed with the wide range of topics covered, from the latest findings about propolis from various parts of the world in medical research to its use in natural cosmetics and alternative medicine. The wealth of knowledge shared was truly inspirational.
Sustainable sourcing of propolis & caring for the bees
Photo above: To Bee or Not to Bee project
One of the key themes was the growing interest in sustainable sourcing and the importance of protecting the environments where bees thrive. There were discussions on how to ensure that propolis production remains ecologically responsible while benefiting local communities.
We had the opportunity to visit the ‘Meliponario Do Bosque’ in Ribeirão Preto, where we saw firsthand the dedicated efforts being made for the preservation of honey bees. To Bee or Not to Bee" is a dedicated NGO in Brazil that has been working tirelessly to raise awareness about the vital role bees play in sustaining life on Earth. Founded by Professor Gonçalves, the organization has developed a powerful preservation and awareness programme aimed at educating children and the public about the importance of bees for pollination and biodiversity. The initiative emphasizes the critical need to protect bee populations for the health of our ecosystems and food security.
Coming together as a scientific and cultural community
During the conference, we had the unbelievable opportunity to experience a vibrant Gala Dinner, complete with a lively Brazilian Carnival and the energetic rhythms of samba and folk dance. The atmosphere was electric, as attendees immersed themselves in Brazil’s rich cultural traditions. The music, dance, and festive spirit created an unforgettable experience, adding a fun and memorable touch to the conference, and bringing everyone together to celebrate both science and culture.
I left Brazil feeling inspired, energized, and more connected than ever to the global community of propolis enthusiasts. If you ever have the chance to attend this conference in the future, I wholeheartedly recommend it. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
Photo above: Dr. Bhagyashree Kamble with colleague James Fearnley, President of the IPRG, CEO of Nature's Laboratory & keynote speaker at the conference.