6-Gingerol Attenuates Hydrogen Peroxide-induced DNA Damage in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelia Cells

Abstract

An imbalance of oxidation and antioxidation is one of the primary causes of atherosclerosis. The use of natural plant compounds with effects has been proven to have clinical relevance. 6-Gingerol, one of the major components of ginger, has diverse pharmacologic effects. In this study, the chemoprotective effect of 6-gingerol against hydrogen peroxide-induced DNA damage in human umbilical vein endothelia cells (HUVECs) was investigated. The comet assay was used to monitor DNA strand breaks. To further elucidate the underlying mechanisms, we tested lysosomal membrane stability, mitochondrial membrane potential, the intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduced glutathione (GSH). Our data revealed that 6-gingerol significantly reduced the DNA strand breaks caused by hydrogen peroxide. 6-Gingerol effectively suppressed hydrogen peroxide-induced intracellular ROS formation. The GSH depletion in HUVECs was also attenuated by 6-gingerol pretreatment. Moreover, lysosomal membrane stability was destroyed and mitochondrial membrane potential decreased after treated by hydrogen peroxide. Those effects can be protected by 6-gingerol. These firmly indicate 6-gingerol has a strong protective ability against the DNA damage caused by hydrogen peroxide in HUVECs, and the mechanism may relate to the antioxidant activity. Our data suggest 6-gingerol may be beneficial in the prevention of atherosclerosis.