[6]-Gingerol inhibits COX-2 expression by blocking the activation of p38 MAP kinase and NF-κB in phorbol ester-stimulated mouse skin

Effects of shinbuto and ninjinto on prostaglandin E2 production in lipopolysaccharide-treated human gingival fibroblasts

Previously, we revealed that several kampo medicines used for patients with excess and/or medium patterns (kakkonto (TJ-1), shosaikoto (TJ-9), hangeshashinto (TJ-14), and orento (TJ-120)) reduced prostaglandin (PG)E₂ levels using LPS-treated human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). Recently, we examined other kampo medicines used for patients with the deficiency pattern [bakumondoto (TJ-29), shinbuto (TJ-30), ninjinto (TJ-32), and hochuekkito (TJ-41)] and the herbs comprising shinbuto and ninjinto using the same experimental model. Shinbuto and ninjinto concentration-dependently reduced LPS-induced PGE₂ production by HGFs, whereas hochuekkito weakly reduced and bakumondoto did not reduce PGE₂ production. Shinbuto and ninjinto did not alter cyclooxygenase (COX) activity or the expression of molecules involved in the arachidonic acid cascade. Therefore, we next examined which herbs compromising shinbuto and ninjinto reduce LPS-induced PGE₂ production. Among these herbs, shokyo (Zingiberis Rhizoma) and kankyo (Zingiberis Processum Rhizoma) strongly and concentration-dependently decreased LPS-induced PGE₂ production. However, both shokyo and kankyo increased the expression of cytosolic phospholipase (cPL)A₂ but did not affect annexin1 or COX-2 expression. These results suggest that shokyo and kankyo suppress cPLA₂ activity. We demonstrated that kampo medicines suppress inflammatory responses in patients with the deficiency pattern, and in those with excess or medium patterns. Moreover, kampo medicines that contain shokyo or kankyo are considered to be effective for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

A novel formulation of [6]-gingerol: Proliposomes with enhanced oral bioavailability and antitumor effect

[6]-Gingerol, one of the components of the rhizome of Ginger, has a variety of biological activities such as anticoagulant, antioxidative, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, and so forth. However, as one of the homologous phenolic ketones, [6]-gingerol is insoluble in water which limits its applications. Herein, we prepared [6]-gingerol proliposomes through modified thin-film dispersion method, which was spherical or oval, and physicochemically stable with narrow size distribution. Surprisingly, in vitro release of [6]-gingerol loaded proliposome compared with the free [6]-gingerol was significantly higher and its oral bioavailability increased 5-fold in vivo. Intriguingly, its antitumor effect was enhanced in the liposome formulation. Thus, our prepared [6]-gingerol proliposome proved to be a novel formulation for [6]-gingerol, which significantly improved its antitumor effect.

Baicalin Alleviates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Liver Inflammation in Chicken by Suppressing TLR4-Mediated NF-κB Pathway

As a kind of potent stimulus, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) has the ability to cause cell damage by activating toll-like receptor(TLR)4, then nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) translocates into the nucleus and changes the expression of related inflammatory genes. Baicalin is extracted from Radix Scutellariae, which possesses anti-inflammation, antioxidant and antibacterial properties. However, the effects of it on LPS-induced liver inflammation have not been fully elucidated. This study aims to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of Baicalin on the LPS-induced liver inflammation and its underlying molecular mechanisms in chicken. The results of histopathological changes, serum biochemical analysis, NO levels and myeloperoxidase activity showed that Baicalin pretreatment ameliorated LPS-induced liver inflammation. ELISA and qPCR assays showed that Baicalin dose-dependently suppressed the production of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Furthermore, the mRNA expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) were significantly decreased by Baicalin. TLR4 is an important sensor in LPS infection. Molecular studies showed that the expression of TLR4 was inhibited by Baicalin pretreatment. In addition, Baicalin pretreatment inhibited NF-kB signaling pathway activation. All results demonstrated the protective effects of Baicalin pretreatment against LPS-induced liver inflammation in chicken via negative regulation of inflammatory mediators through the down-regulation of TLR4 expression and the inhibition of NF-kB activation.

Absorption, Metabolic Stability, and Pharmacokinetics of Ginger Phytochemicals

We have previously demonstrated promising anticancer efficacy of orally-fed whole ginger extract (GE) in preclinical prostate models emphasizing the importance of preservation of the natural "milieu". Essentially, GE primarily includes active ginger phenolics viz., 6-gingerol (6G), 8-gingerol (8G), 10-gingerol (10G), and 6-shogaol (6S). However, the druglikeness properties of active GE phenolics like solubility, stability, and metabolic characteristics are poorly understood. Herein, we determined the physicochemical and biochemical properties of GE phenolics by conducting in vitro assays and mouse pharmacokinetic studies with and without co-administration of ketoconazole (KTZ). GE phenolics showed low to moderate solubility in various pH buffers but were stable in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids, indicating their suitability for oral administration. All GE phenolics were metabolically unstable and showed high intrinsic clearance in mouse, rat, dog, and human liver microsomes. Upon oral administration of 250 mg/kg GE, sub-therapeutic concentrations of GE phenolics were observed. Treatment of plasma samples with β-glucuronidase (βgd) increased the exposure of all GE phenolics by 10 to 700-fold. Co-administration of KTZ with GE increased the exposure of free GE phenolics by 3 to 60-fold. Interestingly, when the same samples were treated with βgd, the exposure of GE phenolics increased by 11 to 60-fold, suggesting inhibition of phase I metabolism by KTZ but little effect on glucuronide conjugation. Correlating the in vitro and in vivo results, it is reasonable to conclude that phase II metabolism seems to be the predominant clearance pathway for GE phenolics. We present evidence that the first-pass metabolism, particularly glucuronide conjugation of GE phenolics, underlies low systemic exposure.

The effect of a 10-week high-intensity interval training and ginger consumption on inflammatory indices contributing to atherosclerosis in overweight women

Background:

Most of the cardiovascular diseases can be prevented by doing regular physical exercises and using herbal supplements. The present study is aimed at assessing ginger supplement and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on inflammatory indices contributing to atherosclerosis in overweight women.

Materials and Methods:

The present study is a randomized, experimental, and controlled one in which thirty healthy overweight women aged 20–30 years were randomly divided into three equal groups, namely, ginger, ginger + HIIT, and placebo + HIIT. The training groups performed high-intensity interval exercises (i.e. 40-m maximal shuttle run) for ten consecutive weeks. The supplement groups daily took 3 g of ginger pills and the third group took placebo.

Results:

Paired t-test revealed a significant decrease in the density of type 1 monocytes chemo tactic protein (MCP-1) in HIIT + ginger (P = 0.026) and HIIT + placebo (P = 0.001) groups. Besides, maximum aerobic capacity in the two training groups significantly increased P = 0.002 and P = 0.000, respectively. In spite of this, analysis of variance showed no significant differences in three groups regarding the three indices such as intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) (P = 0.093), MCP-1(P = 0.075), and serum interleukin-10 (IL-10) (P = 0.164).

Conclusion:

A 10-week intensive interval exercise, by itself or together with ginger supplement, improved MCP-1 and maximum oxygen consumption in overweight women, without any significant effect on soluble ICAM-1 and IL-10. These findings indicate the relative and efficient role of HIIT in overweight women without the necessity to combine with ginger as an antioxidant/anti-inflammatory supplement.

Impact of Phytochemicals and Dietary Patterns on Epigenome and Cancer

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death around the world. Initially it is recognized as a genetic disease, but now it is known to involve epigenetic abnormalities along with genetic alterations. Epigenetics refers to heritable changes that are not encoded in the DNA sequence itself, but play an important role in the control of gene expression. It includes changes in DNA methylation, histone modifications, and RNA interference. Although it is heritable, environmental factors such as diet could directly influence epigenetic mechanisms in humans. This article will focus on the role of dietary patterns and phytochemicals that have been demonstrated to influence the epigenome and more precisely histone and non-histone proteins modulation by acetylation that helps to induce apoptosis and phosphorylation inhibition, which counteracts with cells proliferation. Recent developments discussed here enhance our understanding of how dietary intervention could be beneficial in preventing or treating cancer and improving health outcomes.

The effects of 6-Gingerol on reproductive improvement, liver functioning and Cyclooxygenase-2 gene expression in estradiol valerate - Induced polycystic ovary syndrome in Wistar rats

6-Gingerol is the major pungent ingredient of ginger with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In this study, we evaluate the effects of 6-gingerol on the biochemical parameters and ovarian histological improvements in estradiol valerate (EV) induced PCOS rats. Thirty six female Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups: control, received normal diet, PCOS control, received 4 mg/kg EV injection for 28 days and two experimental groups, received an EV injection for 28 days and followed by 6-gingerol (200 μg/_kg and 400 μg/_kg) for 14 days. The administration of EV led to increase body and ovarian weights, abnormality in serum sex steroid profile, decrease in antioxidant activity and increase in COX-2 gene expression. 6-gingerol treatments, particularly the 400 μg/_kg dose, markedly attenuated these alterations. 6-gingerol showed beneficial effects in the EV induced PCOS rats via decreased expression of COX-2, restored biochemical parameters to normal and decreased of cysts in the ovaries.

Ethnopharmacological survey of medicinal plants used by patients with psoriasis in the West Bank of Palestine

Background

Psoriasis is a frequent skin inflammatory disorder that inflicts millions of patients around the globe. To meet their healthcare needs, patients with psoriasis often seek treatment outside the allopathic paradigm. Use of medicinal plants has emerged as one of the most common and preferred modalities of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). The aim of this study was to investigate the use of medicinal plants by patients with psoriasis in the West Bank of Palestine.

Methods

The current study was a questionnaire based cross-sectional descriptive study on the use of medicinal plants by psoriasis patients in the West Bank of Palestine. A sample of 149 patients with psoriasis who were visiting outpatient clinics responded to the questionnaire in face to face interviews.

Results

Medicinal plants were used by 81 (54.4%) patients with psoriasis. Patients used 33 medicinal plants belonging to 26 families. Plants belonging to Lamiaceae and Leguminosae were the most commonly used by the study patients. Aloe vera, Trigonella arabica, Catharanthus roseus and Anthemis cotula were the most frequently used medicinal plants to treat psoriasis. Leaves and fruits were the most commonly used parts by the study patients. Paste was the most commonly used form of preparation. The use of medicinal plants was significantly associated with age and monthly household income of the patients. Enhancement of immunity, improving conventional therapy and reduction of side effects were the most commonly self-reported reasons for using medicinal plants.

Conclusions

Patients with psoriasis in Palestine seem to use medicinal plants as a CAM modality to manage their psoriasis. Many medicinal plants were commonly used by patients with psoriasis. More randomized clinical trials are needed to demonstrate safety and efficacy for the majority of these medicinal plants reported to be used by patients with psoriasis in Palestine.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12906-016-1503-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Evaluation of the anti-inflammatory properties of telmesteine on inflammation-associated skin diseases

Telmesteine, a useful agent for respiratory tract disorders, has been reported to be a critical active ingredient in topical compositions for dermatitis.

Targeting arachidonic acid pathway by natural products for cancer prevention and therapy

Arachidonic acid (AA) pathway, a metabolic process, plays a key role in carcinogenesis. Hence, AA pathway metabolic enzymes phospholipase A₂s (PLA₂s), cyclooxygenases (COXs) and lipoxygenases (LOXs) and their metabolic products, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, have been considered novel preventive and therapeutic targets in cancer. Bioactive natural products are a good source for development of novel cancer preventive and therapeutic drugs, which have been widely used in clinical practice due to their safety profiles. AA pathway inhibitory natural products have been developed as chemopreventive and therapeutic agents against several cancers. Curcumin, resveratrol, apigenin, anthocyans, berberine, ellagic acid, eugenol, fisetin, ursolic acid, [6]-gingerol, guggulsteone, lycopene and genistein are well known cancer chemopreventive agents which act by targeting multiple pathways, including COX-2. Nordihydroguaiaretic acid and baicalein can be chemopreventive molecules against various cancers by inhibiting LOXs. Several PLA₂s inhibitory natural products have been identified with chemopreventive and therapeutic potentials against various cancers. In this review, we critically discuss the possible utility of natural products as preventive and therapeutic agents against various oncologic diseases, including prostate, pancreatic, lung, skin, gastric, oral, blood, head and neck, colorectal, liver, cervical and breast cancers, by targeting AA pathway. Further, the current status of clinical studies evaluating AA pathway inhibitory natural products in cancer is reviewed. In addition, various emerging issues, including bioavailability, toxicity and explorability of combination therapy, for the development of AA pathway inhibitory natural products as chemopreventive and therapeutic agents against human malignancy are also discussed.

6-Gingerol inhibits Vibrio cholerae-induced proinflammatory cytokines in intestinal epithelial cells via modulation of NF-κB

Context The effect of 6-gingerol (6G), the bioactive component of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Zingiberaceae), in the reduction of Vibrio cholerae (Vibrionaceae)-induced inflammation has not yet been reported. Materials and methods Cell viability assay was performed to determine the working concentration of 6G. Elisa and RT-PCR were performed with Int 407 cells treated with 50 μM 6G and 100 multiplicity of infection (MOI) V. cholerae for 0, 2, 3, 3.5, 6 and 8 h to determine the concentration of IL-8, IL-6, IL-1α and IL-1β in both protein and RNA levels. Furthermore, the effect of 50 μM 6G on upstream MAP-kinases and NF-κB signalling pathways was evaluated at 0, 10, 15, 30, 60 and 90 min. Results The effective dose (ED50) value of 6G was found to be 50 μM as determined by cell viability assay. Pre-treatment with 50 μM 6G reduced V. cholerae infection-triggered levels of IL-8, IL-6, IL-1α and IL-1β by 3.2-fold in the protein level and two-fold in the RNA level at 3.5 h. The levels of MAP-kinases signalling molecules like p38 and ERK1/2 were also reduced by two- and three-fold, respectively, after 30 min of treatment. Additionally, there was an increase in phosphorylated IκBα and down-regulation of p65 resulting in down-regulation of NF-κB pathway. Conclusion Our results showed that 6G could modulate the anti-inflammatory responses triggered by V. cholerae-induced infection in intestinal epithelial cells by modulating NF-κB pathway.

Ginger augmented chemotherapy: A novel multitarget nontoxic approach for cancer management

Cancer, referred to as the 'disease of civilization', continues to haunt humanity due to its dreadful manifestations and limited success of therapeutic interventions such as chemotherapy in curing the disease. Although effective, chemotherapy has repeatedly demonstrated inadequacy in disease management due to its debilitating side effects arising from its deleterious nonspecific effects on normal healthy cells. In addition, development of chemoresistance due to mono-targeting often results in cessation of chemotherapy. This urgently demands development and implementation of multitargeted alternative therapies with mild or no side effects. One extremely promising strategy that yet remains untapped in the clinic is augmenting chemotherapy with dietary phytochemicals or extracts. Ginger, depository of numerous bioactive molecules, not only targets cancer cells but can also mitigate chemotherapy-associated side effects. Consequently, combination therapy involving ginger extract and chemotherapeutic agents may offer the advantage of being efficacious with reduced toxicity. Here we discuss the remarkable and often overlooked potential of ginger extract to manage cancer, the possibility of developing ginger-based combinational therapies, and the major roadblocks along with strategies to overcome them in clinical translation of such inventions. We are optimistic that clinical implementation of such combination regimens would be a much sought after modality in cancer management.

Natural Agents Used in Chemoprevention of Aerodigestive and GI Cancers

Aerodigestive cancers are on an increasing level in both occurrence and mortality. A major cause in many of these cancers is disruption of the inflammatory pathway, leading to increased cell proliferation, and epigenetic silencing of normal regulatory genes. Here we review the research on several natural products: silibinin, silymarin, quercetin, neem & nimbolide, gingerol, epigallatecatechin-3- gallate, curcumin, genistein and resveratrol conducted on aerodigestive cancers. These types of cancers are primarily those from oral cavity, esophagus/windpipe, stomach, small and large intestine, colon/rectum and bile/pancreas tissues. We report on the utilization in vivo and in vitro systems to research these dose effects on the inflammatory and epigenetic pathway components within the aerodigestive cancer. To follow up on the basic research we will discuss remaining research questions and future directions involving these natural products as putative stand alone or in combination with clinical agents.

6-Gingerol Mediates its Anti Tumor Activities in Human Oral and Cervical Cancer Cell Lines through Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest

6-Gingerol, a potent nutraceutical, has been shown to have antitumor activity in different tumors, although its mechanism of action is not well understood. In this study, we evaluated antitumor activities of 6-gingerol on human oral (SCC4, KB) and cervical cancer (HeLa) cell lines with or without wortmannin, rapamycin, and cisplatin. Tumor cell proliferation was observed using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H tetrazolium, inner salt assay, cell cycle analysis by propidium iodide labeling and flow cytometry, apoptosis by Annexin-V binding assay, and caspase activity by chemiluminescence assay. 6-Gingerol showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity in all three cell lines. Combinations of 6-gingerol with wortmannin and cisplatin showed additive effects, while with rapamycin, it showed 50% cytotoxicity that was equivalent to IC50 of 6-gingerol alone. Treatment with 6-gingerol resulted in G2-phase arrest in KB and HeLa cells and S-phase arrest in SCC4 cells. 6-Gingerol, wortmannin, and rapamycin treatment showed almost two-fold higher expression of caspase 3 in all cell lines. The results imply that 6-gingerol either alone or in combination with PI-3 K inhibitor and cisplatin may provide better therapeutic effects in oral and cervical carcinoma. Thus, 6-gingerol appears to be a safe and potent chemotherapeutic/chemopreventive compound acting through cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis in human oral and cervical tumor cells.

Ameliorative potential of gingerol: Promising modulation of inflammatory factors and lipid marker enzymes expressions in HFD induced obesity in rats

Obesity, generally linked to hyperlipidemia, has been occurring of late with distressing alarm and has now become a global phenomenon casting a huge economic burden on the health care system of countries around the world. The present study investigated the effects of gingerol over 30 days on the changes in HFD-induced obese rats in marker enzymes of lipid metabolism such as fatty-acid synthase (FAS), Acetyl CoA Carboxylase (ACC), Carnitine Palmitoyl Transferase-1(CPT-1), HMG co-A Reductase (HMGR), Lecithin Choline Acyl Transferase (LCAT) and Lipoprotein Lipase (LPL) and inflammatory markers (TNF-α and IL-6). The rats were treated orally with gingerol (75 mg kg(-1)) once daily for 30 days with a lorcaserin-treated group (10 mg kg(-1)) included for comparison. Changes in body weight, glucose, insulin resistance and expressions of lipid marker enzymes and inflammatory markers in tissues were observed in experimental rats. The administration of gingerol resulted in a significant reduction in body weight gain, glucose and insulin levels, and insulin resistance, which altered the activity, expressions of lipid marker enzymes and inflammatory markers. It showed that gingerol had significantly altered these parameters when compared with HFD control rats. This study confirms that gingerol prevents HFD-induced hyperlipidemia by modulating the expression of enzymes important to cholesterol metabolism.

Gingerol and Its Role in Chronic Diseases

Since antiquity, ginger or Zingiber officinale, has been used by humans for medicinal purposes and as spice condiments to enhance flavor in cooking. Ginger contains many phenolic compounds such as gingerol, shogaol and paradol that exhibit antioxidant, anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory properties. The role of ginger and its constituents in ameliorating diseases has been the focus of study in the past two decades by many researchers who provide strong scientific evidence of its health benefit. This review discusses research findings and works devoted to gingerols, the major pungent constituent of ginger, in modulating and targeting signaling pathways with subsequent changes that ameliorate, reverse or prevent chronic diseases in human studies and animal models. The physical, chemical and biological properties of gingerols are also described. The use of ginger and especially gingerols as medicinal food derivative appears to be safe in treating or preventing chronic diseases which will benefit the common population, clinicians, patients, researchers, students and industrialists.

Chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) enhances the carcinogenic potential of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) and accelerates the onset of tumor development in Swiss albino mice

Social stressors evolving from individual and population interactions produce stress reactions in many organisms (including humans), influencing homeostasis, altering the activity of the immunological system, and thus leading to various pathological states including cancer and their progression. The present study sought to validate the effectiveness of chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) in cancer promotion and to assess oxidative stress outcomes in terms of various in vivo biochemical parameters, oxidative stress markers, DNA damage, and the development of skin tumors in Swiss albino mice. Animals were randomized into different groups based on their exposure to CUS alone, 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) alone (topical), and DMBA-12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) (topical) and exposure to CUS prior to DMBA or DMBA-TPA treatments and sacrificed after 16 weeks of treatment. Prior exposure to CUS significantly increased the pro-oxidant effect of carcinogen, depicted by compromised levels of antioxidants in the circulation and skin, accompanied by enhanced lipid peroxidation, plasma corticosterone, and marker enzymes as compared to DMBA-alone or DMBA-TPA treatments. DNA damage results corroborated the above biochemical outcomes. Also, the development of skin tumors (in terms of their incidence, tumor yield, and tumor burden) in mice in the presence and absence of stress further strongly supported our above biochemical measurements. CUS may work as a promoter of carcinogenesis by enhancing the pro-oxidant potential of carcinogens. Further studies may be aimed at the development of interventions for disease prevention by identifying the relations between psychological factors and DNA damage.

Oral intake of encapsulated dried ginger root powder hardly affects human thermoregulatory function, but appears to facilitate fat utilization

The present study investigated the impact of a single oral ingestion of ginger on thermoregulatory function and fat oxidation in humans. Morning and afternoon oral intake of 1.0 g dried ginger root powder did not alter rectal temperature, skin blood flow, O2 consumption, CO2 production, and thermal sensation and comfort, or induce sweating at an ambient temperature of 28 °C. Ginger ingestion had no effect on threshold temperatures for skin blood flow or thermal sweating. Serum levels of free fatty acids were significantly elevated at 120 min after ginger ingestion in both the morning and afternoon. Morning ginger intake significantly reduced respiratory exchange ratios and elevated fat oxidation by 13.5 % at 120 min after ingestion. This was not the case in the afternoon. These results suggest that the effect of a single oral ginger administration on the peripheral and central thermoregulatory function is miniscule, but does facilitate fat utilization although the timing of the administration may be relevant.

Gingerols and shogaols: Important nutraceutical principles from ginger

Gingerols are the major pungent compounds present in the rhizomes of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) and are renowned for their contribution to human health and nutrition. Medicinal properties of ginger, including the alleviation of nausea, arthritis and pain, have been associated with the gingerols. Gingerol analogues are thermally labile and easily undergo dehydration reactions to form the corresponding shogaols, which impart the characteristic pungent taste to dried ginger. Both gingerols and shogaols exhibit a host of biological activities, ranging from anticancer, anti-oxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic to various central nervous system activities. Shogaols are important biomarkers used for the quality control of many ginger-containing products, due to their diverse biological activities. In this review, a large body of available knowledge on the biosynthesis, chemical synthesis and pharmacological activities, as well as on the structure-activity relationships of various gingerols and shogaols, have been collated, coherently summarised and discussed. The manuscript highlights convincing evidence indicating that these phenolic compounds could serve as important lead molecules for the development of therapeutic agents to treat various life-threatening human diseases, particularly cancer. Inclusion of ginger or ginger extracts in nutraceutical formulations could provide valuable protection against diabetes, cardiac and hepatic disorders.

Gingerol Inhibits Serum-Induced Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Injury-Induced Neointimal Hyperplasia by Suppressing p38 MAPK Activation

Purpose:

Gingerol inhibits growth of cancerous cells; however, its role in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation is not known. The present study investigated the effect of gingerol on VSMC proliferation in cell culture and during neointima formation after balloon injury.

Method and Results:

Rat VSMCs or carotid arteries were harvested at 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1, 6, 12, and 24 hours of fetal bovine serum (FBS; 10%) stimulation or balloon injury, respectively. Gingerol prevented FBS (10%)-induced proliferation of VSMCs in a dose-dependent manner (50 μmol/L-400 μmol/L). The FBS-induced proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) upregulation and p27Kip1 downregulation were also attenuated in gingerol (200 μmol/L) pretreated cells. Fetal bovine serum-induced p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation, PCNA upregulation, and p27Kip1 downregulation were abrogated in gingerol (200 μmol/L) and p38 MAPK inhibitor (SB203580, 10 μmol/L) pretreated cells. Balloon injury induced time-dependent p38 MAPK activation in the carotid artery. Pretreatment with gingerol (200 μmol/L) significantly attenuated injury-induced p38 MAPK activation, PCNA upregulation, and p27Kip1 downregulation. After 14 days of balloon injury, intimal thickening, neointimal proliferation, and endothelial dysfunction were significantly prevented in gingerol pretreated arteries. In isolated organ bath studies, gingerol (30 nmol/L-300 μmol/L) inhibited phenylephrine-induced contractions and induced dose-dependent relaxation of rat thoracic aortic rings in a partially endothelium-dependent manner.

Conclusion:

Gingerol prevented FBS-induced VSMC proliferation and balloon injury-induced neointima formation by regulating p38 MAPK. Vasodilator effect of gingerol observed in the thoracic aorta was partially endothelium dependent. Gingerol is thus proposed as an attractive agent for modulating VSMC proliferation, vascular reactivity, and progression of vascular proliferative diseases.

The effect of mefenamic acid and ginger on pain relief in primary dysmenorrhea: a randomized clinical trial

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to compare the effect of mefenamic acid and ginger on pain management in primary dysmenorrhea.

METHODS

One hundred and twenty-two female students with moderate to severe primary dysmenorrhea were randomly allocated to the ginger and mefenamic groups in a randomized clinical trial. The mefenamic group received 250 mg capsules every 8 h, and the ginger group received 250 mg capsules (zintoma) every 6 h from the onset of menstruation until pain relief lasted 2 cycles. The intensity of pain was assessed by the visual analog scale. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, t test, Chi-square, Fisher exact test and repeated measurement.

RESULTS

The pain intensity in the mefenamic and ginger group was 39.01 ± 17.77 and 43.49 ± 19.99, respectively, in the first month, and 33.75 ± 17.71 and 38.19 ± 20.47, respectively, in the second month (p > 0.05). The severity of dysmenorrhea, pain duration, cycle duration and bleeding volume was not significantly different between groups during the study. The menstrual days were more in the ginger group in the first (p = 0.01) and second cycle (p = 0.04). Repeated measurement showed a significant difference in pain intensity within the groups by time, but not between groups.

CONCLUSION

Ginger is as effective as mefenamic acid on pain relief in primary dysmenorrhea. Ginger does not have adverse effects and is an alternative treatment for primary dysmenorrhea.

Water extract of Cinnamomum cassia suppresses angiogenesis through inhibition of VEGF receptor 2 phosphorylation

Angiogenesis, the process of new blood vessel formation, has been a major target for cancer therapy. Antiangiogenic herbal medicines are useful in the treatment of cancer. In this study, we found that a water extract of Cinnamomum cassia (CCWE) was a potent inhibitor of angiogenesis. In cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells, CCWE suppressed vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced proliferation, migration, invasion, tube formation, and intracellular signaling events such as phosphorylation of ERK, p38 and VEGFR2, and activation of matrix metalloproteinase. Furthermore, CCWE inhibited VEGF-induced vessel sprouting of rat aorta ex vivo. These findings might be of particular interest for drug development because VEGF signaling is a potential target for treatment of angiogenesis-associated diseases.

Regioselective glucuronidation of gingerols by human liver microsomes and expressed UDP-glucuronosyltransferase enzymes: reaction kinetics and activity correlation analyses for UGT1A9 and UGT2B7

OBJECTIVES

To determine the reaction kinetics for regioselective glucuronidation of gingerols (i.e. 6-, 8- and 10-gingerol) by human liver microsomes and expressed UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) enzymes, and to identify the main UGT enzymes involved in regioselective glucuronidation of gingerols.

METHODS

The rates of glucuronidation were determined by incubating the gingerols with uridine diphosphoglucuronic acid-supplemented microsomes. Kinetic parameters were derived by fitting an appropriate model to the data. Activity correlation analyses were performed to identify the main UGT enzymes contributing to hepatic metabolism of gingerols.

KEY FINDINGS

Glucuronidation at the 4'-OH group was much more favoured than that at 5-OH. The degree of position preference was compound-dependent; the catalytic efficiency ratios of 4'-O- to 5-O-glucuronidation were 9.1, 19.7 and 2.9 for 6-, 8- and 10-gingerol, respectively. UGT1A8 (an intestinal enzyme), UGT1A9 and UGT2B7 were the enzymes showing the highest activity towards gingerols. Formation of 5-O-glucuronide was mainly catalysed by UGT1A9. UGT2B7 was the only enzyme that generated glucuronides at both 4'-OH and 5-OH sites, although a strong position preference was observed with 4'-OH (≥80.2%). Further, activity correlation analyses indicated that UGT2B7 and UGT1A9 were primarily responsible for 4'-O-glucuronidation and 5-O-glucuronidation of gingerols in the liver, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Gingerols were metabolized by multiple hepatic and gastrointestinal UGT enzymes. Also, UGT1A9 and 2B7 were the main contributors to regioselective glucuronidation of gingerols in the liver.

Tat-CBR1 inhibits inflammatory responses through the suppressions of NF-κB and MAPK activation in macrophages and TPA-induced ear edema in mice

Human carbonyl reductase 1 (CBR1) plays a crucial role in cell survival and protects against oxidative stress response. However, its anti-inflammatory effects are not yet clearly understood. In this study, we examined whether CBR1 protects against inflammatory responses in macrophages and mice using a Tat-CBR1 protein which is able to penetrate into cells. The results revealed that purified Tat-CBR1 protein efficiently transduced into Raw 264.7 cells and inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) expression levels. In addition, Tat-CBR1 protein leads to decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine expression through suppression of nuclear transcription factor-kappaB (NF-κB) and mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation. Furthermore, Tat-CBR1 protein inhibited inflammatory responses in 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced skin inflammation when applied topically. These findings indicate that Tat-CBR1 protein has anti-inflammatory properties in vitro and in vivo through inhibition of NF-κB and MAPK activation, suggesting that Tat-CBR1 protein may have potential as a therapeutic agent against inflammatory diseases.

Effect of Sodium Arsenite on Mouse Skin Carcinogenesis

Arsenic is carcinogenic in human beings, and environmental exposure to arsenic is a public health issue that affects large populations worldwide. Thus, studies are needed to determine the mode of action of arsenic and prevent harmful effects arising from arsenic intake. The present study assessed the influence of sodium arsenite (As(3+)) on potentially carcinogenic processes that are either pre-existing or concomitant with chronic intake of water containing As(3+). Experiments using SenCar mice were designed to evaluate the effect of chronic administration of As(3+) (2, 20, or 200 mg of As(3+)/L) in drinking water that overlapped to varying degrees with a 2-stage carcinogenesis protocol carried out over 9 months. The results showed a time-dependent pattern. During early stages of carcinogenesis (6-12 weeks), animals exposed to As(3+) and the carcinogenesis protocol showed increased numbers of tumors compared to control animals. During late carcinogenesis (16-30 weeks), the number of tumors stabilized to below control values, but the tumors showed increased malignancy. These findings indicate that the outcomes of the 2-stage skin carcinogenesis protocol are modified by the presence of arsenite in drinking water, which increases the rate of carcinoma development.

Piceatannol inhibits phorbol ester-induced expression of COX-2 and iNOS in HR-1 hairless mouse skin by blocking the activation of NF-κB and AP-1

OBJECTIVES

The present study was aimed at elucidating the molecular mechanisms of anti-inflammatory activity of piceatannol (trans-3,4,3',5'-tetrahydroxystilbene) in mouse skin in vivo.

METHODS

Female HR-1 hairless mice were topically treated with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) with or without piceatannol pretreatment. Epidermal protein expression was assessed by Western blot analysis. The cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression was detected by immunohistochemistry. The DNA binding of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) and activator protein-1 (AP-1) was examined by the electrophoretic mobility gel shift assay. The catalytic activity of IκBα kinase-β (IKKβ) was measured by in vitro kinase assay.

RESULTS

Pretreatment with piceatannol attenuated TPA-induced expression of COX-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in mouse skin. Piceatannol diminished nuclear translocation and the DNA binding of NF-κB through the blockade of phosphorylation and subsequent degradation of IκBα. Piceatannol attenuated the catalytic activity of IKKβ and inhibited the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases in TPA-treated mouse skin. In addition, piceatannol decreased TPA-induced expression of c-Fos and the DNA binding of AP-1.

CONCLUSION

Piceatannol inhibits TPA-induced COX-2 and iNOS expression by blocking the activation of NF-κB and AP-1 via suppression of the IKKβ activity and phosphorylation of MAP kinases, which provides a mechanistic basis of its anti-inflammatory effects in mouse skin.

Ginger components as new leads for the design and development of novel multi-targeted anti-Alzheimer's drugs: a computational investigation

Ginger (Zingiber officinale), despite being a common dietary adjunct that contributes to the taste and flavor of foods, is well known to contain a number of potentially bioactive phytochemicals having valuable medicinal properties. Although recent studies have emphasized their benefits in Alzheimer's disease, limited information is available on the possible mechanism by which it renders anti-Alzheimer activity. Therefore, the present study seeks to employ molecular docking studies to investigate the binding interactions between active ginger components and various anti-Alzheimer drug targets. Lamarckian genetic algorithm methodology was employed for docking of 12 ligands with 13 different target proteins using AutoDock 4.2 program. Docking protocol was validated by re-docking of all native co-crystallized ligands into their original binding cavities exhibiting a strong correlation coefficient value (r (2)=0.931) between experimentally reported and docking predicted activities. This value suggests that the approach could be a promising computational tool to aid optimization of lead compounds obtained from ginger. Analysis of binding energy, predicted inhibition constant, and hydrophobic/hydrophilic interactions of ligands with target receptors revealed acetylcholinesterase as most promising, while c-Jun N-terminal kinase was recognized as the least favorable anti-Alzheimer's drug target. Common structural requirements include hydrogen bond donor/acceptor area, hydrophobic domain, carbon spacer, and distal hydrophobic domain flanked by hydrogen bond donor/acceptor moieties. In addition, drug-likeness score and molecular properties responsible for a good pharmacokinetic profile were calculated by Osiris property explorer and Molinspiration online toolkit, respectively. None of the compounds violated Lipinski's rule of five, making them potentially promising drug candidates for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Modulation of cytochrome P450 metabolism and transport across intestinal epithelial barrier by ginger biophenolics

Natural and complementary therapies in conjunction with mainstream cancer care are steadily gaining popularity. Ginger extract (GE) confers significant health-promoting benefits owing to complex additive and/or synergistic interactions between its bioactive constituents. Recently, we showed that preservation of natural "milieu" confers superior anticancer activity on GE over its constituent phytochemicals, 6-gingerol (6G), 8-gingerol (8 G), 10-gingerol (10 G) and 6-shogaol (6S), through enterohepatic recirculation. Here we further evaluate and compare the effects of GE and its major bioactive constituents on cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme activity in human liver microsomes by monitoring metabolites of CYP-specific substrates using LC/MS/MS detection methods. Our data demonstrate that individual gingerols are potent inhibitors of CYP isozymes, whereas GE exhibits a much higher half-maximal inhibition value, indicating no possible herb-drug interactions. However, GE's inhibition of CYP1A2 and CYP2C8 reflects additive interactions among the constituents. In addition, studies performed to evaluate transporter-mediated intestinal efflux using Caco-2 cells revealed that GE and its phenolics are not substrates of P-glycoprotein (Pgp). Intriguingly, however, 10 G and 6S were not detected in the receiver compartment, indicating possible biotransformation across the Caco-2 monolayer. These data strengthen the notion that an interplay of complex interactions among ginger phytochemicals when fed as whole extract dictates its bioactivity highlighting the importance of consuming whole foods over single agents. Our study substantiates the need for an in-depth analysis of hepatic biotransformation events and distribution profiles of GE and its active phenolics for the design of safe regimens.

Theoretical and experimental study on lipophilicity and wound healing activity of ginger compounds

OBJECTIVE

To correlate the chromatographic and computational method to calculate lipophilicity of selected ginger compounds and to observe the effects of log P on wound healing.

METHODS

Mixtures of acetonitrile and water with acetonitrile content between 95% and 50% v/v in 5% increments were kept separately in 10 different chromatographic chambers, saturated with solvent for 2 h. Spots were observed under UV light at λ=254 nm p-anisaldehyde used as a spraying reagent. Theoretical calculation was done using the Alogps 2.1 online program at www.vcclab.org/lab/alogps. For percentage wound contraction, five groups of animal (mice) (25-30 g) of either sex were selected. Wound were created on dorsal surface of animals using toothed forceps, scalpel and pointed scissors. The wound areas were calculated using vernier caliper. After making wound mice were orally administered 35 mg/kg 6-shogoal, 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol and 10-gingerol respectively. Group E as the control group received tap water.

RESULTS

The lipophilicity values determined in thin layer chromatography were correlated with the theoretically calculated various log P by linear regression analysis. Significant correlations were found between log P values calculated by software program and the experimental reversed-phase thin-layer chromatography data. Order of wound healing property of ginger compounds is directly dependent on lipophilicity i.e. more lipophilic compound has highest activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Experimentally determined lipophilicity (R MO) values were correlated with log P determined by software's and found satisfactory. Lipophilicity (R MO) is a useful parameter for the determination and prediction of biological activity of ginger compounds.

[6]-Gingerol induces caspase-dependent apoptosis and prevents PMA-induced proliferation in colon cancer cells by inhibiting MAPK/AP-1 signaling

We report mechanism-based evidence for the anticancer and chemopreventive efficacy of [6]-gingerol, the major active principle of the medicinal plant, Ginger (Zingiber officinale), in colon cancer cells. The compound was evaluated in two human colon cancer cell lines for its cytotoxic effect and the most sensitive cell line, SW-480, was selected for the mechanistic evaluation of its anticancer and chemopreventive efficacy. The non-toxic nature of [6]-gingerol was confirmed by viability assays on rapidly dividing normal mouse colon cells. [6]-gingerol inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis as evidenced by externalization of phosphatidyl serine in SW-480, while the normal colon cells were unaffected. Sensitivity to [6]-gingerol in SW-480 cells was associated with activation of caspases 8, 9, 3 &7 and cleavage of PARP, which attests induction of apoptotic cell death. Mechanistically, [6]-gingerol down-regulated Phorbol Myristate Acetate (PMA) induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and JNK MAP kinases and activation of AP-1 transcription factor, but had only little effects on phosphorylation of p38 MAP kinase and activation of NF-kappa B. Additionally, it complemented the inhibitors of either ERK1/2 or JNK MAP kinase in bringing down the PMA-induced cell proliferation in SW-480 cells. We report the inhibition of ERK1/2/JNK/AP-1 pathway as a possible mechanism behind the anticancer as well as chemopreventive efficacy of [6]-gingerol against colon cancer.

Protective effect of sanguinarine on LPS-induced endotoxic shock in mice and its effect on LPS-induced COX-2 expression and COX-2 associated PGE2 release from peritoneal macrophages

The quaternary ammonium salt, sanguinarine (SG) was reported to possess widespread anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory effects in experimental animals and it has been used to treat many inflammatory diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect and the possible mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory activity of SG. Experimentally-induced mice ES model and LPS-induced peritoneal macrophages were used to examine the anti-inflammatory function of SG. In this study, SG pretreatment significantly increased the survival rate of mice from 25% to 58%, 75% and 91% respectively. The production of PGE2 in BALF, the lung MPO activity and the (W/D) weight ratios were also markedly reduced. In addition, immunohistochemical analysis showed that the expression of COX-2 was significantly suppressed in vivo. We also evaluated the effect of SG in LPS-induced peritoneal macrophages to clarify the possible mechanism. The data indicated that SG greatly inhibited the production of PGE2, and it also decreased COX-2 protein expression, without affecting COX-1 expression, in LPS-stimulated peritoneal macrophages. Taken all together, SG potently protected against LPS-induced ES, and our results suggest that the possible mechanism may be relevant to COX-2 regulation.

Enterohepatic recirculation of bioactive ginger phytochemicals is associated with enhanced tumor growth-inhibitory activity of ginger extract

Phytochemical complexity of plant foods confers health-promoting benefits including chemopreventive and anticancer effects. Isolating single constituents from complex foods may render them inactive, emphasizing the importance of preserving the natural composition of whole extracts. Recently, we demonstrated in vitro synergy among the most abundant bioactive constituents of ginger extract (GE), viz., 6-gingerol (6G), 8-gingerol (8G), 10-gingerol (10G) and 6-shogaol (6S). However, no study has yet examined the in vivo collaboration among ginger phytochemicals or evaluated the importance, if any, of the natural 'milieu' preserved in whole extract. Here, we comparatively evaluated in vivo efficacy of GE with an artificial quasi-mixture (Mix) formulated by combining four most active ginger constituents at concentrations equivalent to those present in whole extract. Orally fed GE showed 2.4-fold higher tumor growth-inhibitory efficacy than Mix in human prostate tumor xenografts. Pharmacokinetic evaluations and bioavailability measurements addressed the efficacy differences between GE and Mix. Plasma concentration-time profiles revealed multiple peaking phenomenon for ginger constituents when they were fed as GE as opposed to Mix, indicating enterohepatic recirculation. Bioavailability of 6G, 8G, 10G and 6S was 1.6-, 1.1-, 2.5- and 3.4-fold higher, respectively, when dosed with GE compared with Mix. In addition, gingerol glucuronides were detected in feces upon intravenous administration confirming hepatobiliary elimination. These data ascribe the superior in vivo efficacy of GE to higher area under the concentration time curves, greater residence time and enhanced bioavailability, of ginger phytochemicals, when fed as a natural extract compared with artificial Mix, emphasizing the usefulness of consuming whole foods over single agents.

6-Shogaol from dried ginger inhibits growth of prostate cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo through inhibition of STAT3 and NF-κB signaling

Despite much recent progress, prostate cancer continues to represent a major cause of cancer-related mortality and morbidity in men. Prostate cancer is the most common nonskin neoplasm and second leading cause of death in men. 6-Shogaol (6-SHO), a potent bioactive compound in ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity. In the present study, the effect of 6-SHO on the growth of prostate cancer cells was investigated. 6-SHO effectively reduced survival and induced apoptosis of cultured human (LNCaP, DU145, and PC3) and mouse (HMVP2) prostate cancer cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that 6-SHO reduced constitutive and interleukin (IL)-6-induced STAT3 activation and inhibited both constitutive and TNF-α-induced NF-κB activity in these cells. In addition, 6-SHO decreased the level of several STAT3 and NF-κB-regulated target genes at the protein level, including cyclin D1, survivin, and cMyc and modulated mRNA levels of chemokine, cytokine, cell cycle, and apoptosis regulatory genes (IL-7, CCL5, BAX, BCL2, p21, and p27). 6-SHO was more effective than two other compounds found in ginger, 6-gingerol, and 6-paradol at reducing survival of prostate cancer cells and reducing STAT3 and NF-κB signaling. 6-SHO also showed significant tumor growth inhibitory activity in an allograft model using HMVP2 cells. Overall, the current results suggest that 6-SHO may have potential as a chemopreventive and/or therapeutic agent for prostate cancer and that further study of this compound is warranted.

TU-100 (Daikenchuto) and ginger ameliorate anti-CD3 antibody induced T cell-mediated murine enteritis: microbe-independent effects involving Akt and NF-κB suppression

The Japanese traditional medicine daikenchuto (TU-100) has anti-inflammatory activities, but the mechanisms remain incompletely understood. TU-100 includes ginger, ginseng, and Japanese pepper, each component possessing bioactive properties. The effects of TU-100 and individual components were investigated in a model of intestinal T lymphocyte activation using anti-CD3 antibody. To determine contribution of intestinal bacteria, specific pathogen free (SPF) and germ free (GF) mice were used. TU-100 or its components were delivered by diet or by gavage. Anti-CD3 antibody increased jejunal accumulation of fluid, increased TNFα, and induced intestinal epithelial apoptosis in both SPF and GF mice, which was blocked by either TU-100 or ginger, but not by ginseng or Japanese pepper. TU-100 and ginger also blocked anti-CD3-stimulated Akt and NF-κB activation. A co-culture system of colonic Caco2BBE and Jurkat-1 cells was used to examine T-lymphocyte/epithelial cells interactions. Jurkat-1 cells were stimulated with anti-CD3 to produce TNFα that activates epithelial cell NF-κB. TU-100 and ginger blocked anti-CD3 antibody activation of Akt in Jurkat cells, decreasing their TNFα production. Additionally, TU-100 and ginger alone blocked direct TNFα stimulation of Caco2BBE cells and decreased activation of caspase-3 and polyADP ribose. The present studies demonstrate a new anti-inflammatory action of TU-100 that is microbe-independent and due to its ginger component.

(6)-Gingerolinduced myeloid leukemia cell death is initiated by reactive oxygen species and activation of miR-27b expression

The natural polyphenolic alkanone (6)-gingerol (6G) has established anti-inflammatory and antitumoral properties. However, its precise mechanism of action in myeloid leukemia cells is unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of 6G on myeloid leukemia cells in vitro and in vivo. The results of this study showed that 6G inhibited proliferation of myeloid leukemia cell lines and primary myeloid leukemia cells while sparing the normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells, in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Mechanistic studies using U937 and K562 cell lines revealed that 6G treatment induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by inhibiting mitochondrial respiratory complex I (MRC I), which in turn increased the expression of the oxidative stress response-associated microRNA miR-27b and DNA damage. Elevated miR-27b expression inhibited PPARγ, with subsequent inhibition of the inflammatory cytokine gene expression associated with the oncogenic NF-κB pathway, whereas the increased DNA damage led to G2/M cell cycle arrest. The 6G induced effects were abolished in the presence of anti-miR-27b or the ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine. In addition, the results of the in vivo xenograft experiments in mice indicated that 6G treatment inhibited tumor cell proliferation and induced apoptosis, in agreement with the in vitro studies. Our data provide new evidence that 6G-induced myeloid leukemia cell death is initiated by reactive oxygen species and mediated through an increase in miR-27b expression and DNA damage. The dual induction of increased miR-27b expression and DNA damage-associated cell cycle arrest by 6G may have implications for myeloid leukemia treatment.

Urocortin increased endothelial ICAM1 by cPLA2-dependent NF-κB and PKA pathways in HUVECs

Urocortin (Ucn1), a member of the corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) family, has been reported to participate in inflammation. The increased expression of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1) plays important roles in inflammation and immune responses. Our previous results demonstrated that Ucn1 significantly enhanced the expression of ICAM1. However, the underlying mechanisms are still unknown. The purpose of this study is to investigate the detailed mechanisms of Ucn1-induced upregulation of ICAM1. Here, we characterized the mechanisms of Ucn1 usage to regulate ICAM1 expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Our data revealed that Ucn1 increased ICAM1 and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) expressions in a time-dependent manner via CRH receptor 2 (CRHR2). In addition, COX2 was involved in ICAM1 upregulation. Furthermore, Ucn1 could increase the expression and phosphorylation of cytosolic phospholipases A2 (cPLA2) in a time-dependent manner via CRHR2 and CRHR1. Moreover, ablation of cPLA2 by the inhibitor pyrrophenone or siRNA attenuated the ICAM1 increase induced by Ucn1. In addition, nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) was activated, indicated by the increase in nuclear p65NF-κB expression and phosphorylation of p65NF-κB, depending on cPLA2 and CRHR2 activation. Pyrrolidinedithiocarbamic acid, an inhibitor of NF-κB, abolished the elevation of ICAM1 but not COX2. Also, Ucn1 increased the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) which further activated protein kinase A (PKA)-CREB pathways dependent of cPLA2 via CRHR2. Moreover, the increase in NF-κB phosphorylation was not affected by the selective COX2 inhibitor NS-398 or the PKA inhibitor H89. In conclusion, these data indicate that Ucn1 increase the ICAM1 expression via cPLA2-NF-κB and cPLA2-COX2-PGE2-PKA-CREB pathways by means of CRHR2.

Hexahydro-β-acids potently inhibit 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate-induced skin inflammation and tumor promotion in mice

We previously reported that hexahydro-beta-acids (HBAs), reduced derivatives of beta-acids (BA) from hop (Humulus lupulus L.), displayed more potent anti-inflammatory activity than BA in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated murine macrophages. In this study, we investigated the effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of hexahydro-β-acids (HBAs) on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-stimulated mouse skin inflammation and in the two-stage carcinogenesis model. Female ICR mice pretreated with HBA at 1 and 10 μg significantly reduced ear edema, epidermal hyperplasia, and infiltration of inflammatory cells caused by TPA. Molecular analysis exhibited that HBA suppressed iNOS, COX-2, and ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) protein and gene expression through interfering with mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and phosphatidylinositiol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling as well as the activation of transcription factor NF-κB. Furthermore, application of HBA (1 and 10 μg) prior to each TPA treatment (17.2 ± 0.9 tumors/mouse) resulted in the significant reduction of tumor multiplicity (5.1 ± 1.2, P < 0.01 and 2.3 ± 1.2, P < 0.001, respectively) in 7,12-dimethyl-benzanthracene (DMBA)-initiated mouse skin. The tumor incidence was significantly lowered to 75% (P < 0.05) and 58.7% (P < 0.01) by HBA pretreatment, respectively, and significantly reduced the tumor weight (0.34 ± 0.14 g, P < 0.01 and 0.09 ± 0.10 g, P < 0.001, respectively) as compared to DMBA/TPA-induced tumors (0.76 ± 0.04 g).

Identification of a Calcium Signalling Pathway of S-[6]-Gingerol in HuH-7 Cells

Calcium signals in hepatocytes control cell growth, proliferation, and death. Members of the transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channel superfamily are candidate calcium influx channels. NFκB activation strictly depends on calcium influx and often induces antiapoptotic genes favouring cell survival. Previously, we reported that S-[6]-gingerol is an efficacious agonist of the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) in neurones. In this study, we tested the effect of S-[6]-gingerol on HuH-7 cells using the Fluo-4 calcium assay, RT-qPCR, transient cell transfection, and luciferase measurements. We found that S-[6]-gingerol induced a transient rise in [Ca²⁺]_i in HuH-7 cells. The increase in [Ca²⁺]_i induced by S-[6]-gingerol was abolished by preincubation with EGTA and was also inhibited by the TRPV1 channel antagonist capsazepine. Expression of TRPV1 in HuH-7 cells was confirmed by mRNA analysis as well as a test for increase of [Ca²⁺]_i by TRPV1 agonist capsaicin and its inhibition by capsazepine. We found that S-[6]-gingerol induced rapid NFκB activation through TRPV1 in HuH-7 cells. Furthermore, S-[6]-gingerol-induced NFκB activation was dependent on the calcium gradient and TRPV1. The rapid NFκB activation by S-[6]-gingerol was associated with an increase in mRNA levels of NFκB-target genes: cIAP-2, XIAP, and Bcl-2 that encode antiapoptotic proteins.

Dried Ginger (Zingiber officinalis) Inhibits Inflammation in a Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Mouse Model

Objectives. Ginger rhizomes have a long history of human use, especially with regards to their anti-inflammatory properties. However, the mechanisms by which ginger acts on lipopolysaccharide-(LPS-)induced inflammation have not yet been identified. We investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of dried Zingiber officinalis (DZO) on LPS-induced hepatic injury. Methods. ICR mice were given a DZO water extract (100, 1000 mg/kg) orally for three consecutive days. On the third day, they were administered by LPS intraperitoneally. To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of DZO, histological, cytokine expression, and protein factor analyses were performed. Results. Oral administration of DZO significantly reduced pathological changes in the liver and proinflammatory cytokines including interferon-(IFN-)γ and interleukin-(IL-)6 in the serum. In addition, DZO inhibited LPS-induced NF-κB activation by preventing degradation of the IκB-α, as well as the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, SAPK/JNK, and p38 MAPKs. These were associated with a decrease in the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxyenase-2 (COX-2). Conclusions. Our data provide evidence for the hepatoprotective mechanisms of DZO as an anti-inflammatory effect. Furthermore, use of DZO to treat could provide therapeutic benefits in clinical settings.

COX-2 promotes breast cancer cell radioresistance via p38/MAPK-mediated cellular anti-apoptosis and invasiveness

Radioresistance is one of the major barriers to improve the survival rate of breast cancer patients. Cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) is usually overexpressed in highly invasive and metastatic breast cancer, which may indicate an association with breast cancer radioresistance. The function role of COX-2 was investigated by using a radioresistant breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231/RR10 and its parental cell line MDA-MB-231 cells before or after COX-2 was silenced by a specific small hairpin RNA (shRNA). The cell proliferation, migration, invasion, colony formation, and apoptosis were measured by CCK-8, scratch-wound, transwell, clone formation assay, and flow cytometry. Protein and mRNA expression were analyzed by Western blot and quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. COX-2 is upregulated in MDA-MB-231/RR10 cells compared with in MDA-MB-231 cells, and silencing of COX-2 expression by shRNA in MDA-MB-231/RR10 cells decreases the expression of Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL, but increases the proapoptotic protein BAK, leading to the increased apoptosis following treatment with γ-irradiation in comparison with those in control cells. Silencing of COX-2 also increases the expression of β-catenin and E-cadherin, two anti-invasion proteins, resulting in reduced cell migration and invasion tested by transwell chambers and wound-healing assays. Further study demonstrated that COX-2-induced radioresistance is negatively regulated through the phosphorylation of p38 at Tyr182, and that the phosphorylation of p38 induced by TNF-alpha reduces the expression of Bcl-2, BCL-XL, but increases β-catenin and E-cadherin, leading to the decreased invasiveness of cells. Our data suggest that COX-2, p38, Bcl-2, Bcl-XL, β-catenin, and E-cadherin may be considered as potential therapeutic targets against radioresistant breast cancer.