A Comparative Study of the Anti-Breast Cancer and Immunomodulatory Effects of [6]-, [8]-, and [10]-Gingerol

Abstract

[6]-Gingerol, [8]-gingerol, and [10]-gingerol are phytochemical extracts from ginger that are thought to contribute to its health-benefitting properties. The objectives of this investigation were to explore and compare the in vitro anti-proliferative and cytotoxic effects of [6]-, [8]-, and [10]-gingerol on human and mouse mammary carcinoma cells, as well as their ability to inhibit T cell proliferation. [8]-Gingerol and [10]-gingerol induced mammary carcinoma cell death that did not require ROS production or caspase activation. All three gingerols inhibited the proliferation of mammary carcinoma cells and T cells, and the production of IFN-? by T cells. The production of IL-2 and the expression of early T cell activation markers, CD25 and CD69, were significantly decreased by [8]- and [10]-gingerol. The results demonstrated that [10]-gingerol was the most potent, followed by [8]-gingerol, then [6]-gingerol. Consequently, [8]- and [10]-gingerol warrant further investigation for the treatment of breast cancer and the control of inflammation.