[6]-gingerol effects on the immune system of invertebrates and vertebrates

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) rhizome is commonly used as a spice or as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Although the bioactive constituents (gingerols, shogaols) have been identified, to date Ginger mechanisms of action are almost unclear. This study aimed to determine if [6]-gingerol, an abundant component of Ginger, could act as a bioactive molecule and therefore be able to modulate the immune response in Paracentrotus lividus sea urchin. In this preliminary study, we analyzed the effects of different concentrations of [6]-gingerol on the immune system of the sea urchin, at different time points (3, 6, 24, 48 hours) after a bacterial stimulation. The mRNA expression of some stress and immune genes (TLR4, PKS, 14-3-3, NfKb, Jun) was analyzed by real-time qPCR. Moreover, preliminary experiments were performed in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells to analyze anti-inflammatory effects of [6]-gingerol. Our results suggested that [6]-gingerol modulates gene expression in both invertebrate and vertebrate systems, even if further investigations are needed. We thank the project "RAFFORZARE L'OCCUPABILITÀ NEL SISTEMA R&S E LA NASCITA DI SPIN OFF DI RICERCA IN SICILIA" P.O.FSE 2014/2020.