Ginger Extracts Inhibit Na‐Glucose Cotransport in Rat Intestinal Epithelial Cells

Abstract

BackgroundGlucose absorption in the intestine is regulated by Na‐dependent glucose transporter (SGLT1). Food borne bioactive compounds may alter the role of Na‐dependent nutrient transport including SGLT1 in the gut lumen. Ginger is one of the common spices being used around the globe and its effect on SGLT1 is unknown.AimTo determine the effects of ginger extracts on SGLT1 in enterocytes.MethodsIEC‐6 cells grown on transwell plates were treated with ginger extracts. Initially, dose response and time course experiments were performed for glucose uptake using [3H]‐O‐M‐Glucose. Cytosolic Ca2+ was measured using Flu 3AM and Caspase‐3 activity was determined using a kit. RTQ‐PCR and Western blot analyses were performed to determine SGLT1 mRNA and protein levels, respectively.ResultsGinger extracts treatment decreased Na‐dependent glucose uptake dose dependently in IEC‐6. Kinetic studies demonstrated that ginger extracts inhibit glucose uptake by decreasing the affinity of SGLT1. Ginger extracts treatment increased cytosolic Ca2+ levels but not Caspase‐3 activity. Molecular studies showed that SGLT1 mRNA levels and protein on apical membrane were not down regulated by ginger extracts.ConclusionsThese studies revealed that ginger extracts inhibit glucose absorption by inhibiting SGLT1 activity in enterocytes.Support or Funding InformationThis work was supported by NSF grant, HRD‐1332459 to Drs. Golden, Hamada, and Talukder