Ginger Research Articles

Genome-wide investigation of the nuclear factor Y gene family in Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe): evolution and expression profiling during development and abiotic stresses

BackgroundNuclear factor Y (NF-Y) plays a vital role in numerous biological processes as well as responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. However, its function in ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), a significant medicinal and dietary vegetable, remains largely unexplored. Although the NF-Y family has been thoroughly identified in many plant species, and the function of individual NF-Y TFs has been characterized, there is a paucity of knowledge concerning this family in ginger.MethodsWe identified the largest number of NF-Y genes in the ginger genome using two BLASTP methods as part of our ginger genome research project. The conserved motifs of NF-Y proteins were analyzed through this process. To examine gene duplication events, we employed the Multiple Collinearity Scan toolkit (MCScanX). Syntenic relationships of NF-Y genes were mapped using the Dual Synteny Plotter software. Multiple sequence alignments were performed with MUSCLE under default parameters, and the resulting alignments were used to generate a maximum likelihood (ML) phylogenetic tree with the MEGA X program. RNA-seq analysis was conducted on collected samples, and statistical analyses were performed using Sigma Plot v14.0 (SYSTAT Software, USA).ResultsIn this study, the ginger genome was utilized to identify 36 NF-Y genes (10 ZoNF-YAs, 16 ZoNF-YBs, and 10 ZoNF-YCs), which were renamed based on their chromosomal distribution. Ten distinct motifs were identified within the ZoNF-Y genes, with certain unique motifs being vital for gene function. By analyzing their chromosomal location, gene structure, conserved protein motifs, and gene duplication events, we gained a deeper understanding of the evolutionary characteristics of these ZoNF-Y genes. Detailed analysis of ZoNF-Y gene expression patterns across various tissues, performed through RNA-seq and qRT-PCR, revealed their significant role in regulating ginger rhizome and flower growth and development. Additionally, we identified the ZoNF-Y family genes that responded to abiotic stresses.ConclusionThis study represents the first identification of the ZoNF-Y family in ginger. Our findings contribute to research on evolutionary characteristics and provide a better understanding of the molecular basis for development and abiotic stress response. Furthermore, it lays the foundation for further functional characterization of ZoNF-Y genes with an aim of ginger crop improvement.

Evaluation of antioxidant activity, nutritional and mineral composition of Moringa (Moringa Oleifera) and Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) leaves, flowers and rhizome

Two tropical and subtropical plants that are highly prized and well-known for their rich nutritional qualities, numerous medical uses, and overall health advantages are Moringa (Moringa Oleifera) and Zinger (Zingiber Officinale). This study investigates the antioxidant activity, nutritional composition, and mineral content of Moringa Oleifera and Zingiber Officinale, focusing on their leaves, flowers, and rhizomes. Utilizing solvent extraction with ethanol and evaluated the antioxidant properties using DPPH radical scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays, alongside phytochemical analyses for total phenol and flavonoid content. Our results indicate that Moringa leaves exhibit superior antioxidant activity and the highest total phenol and flavonoid content, while ginger rhizome demonstrates significant ferric ion reduction capability. Nutritional analysis revealed that Moringa leaves are rich in protein, ash, and minerals, particularly calcium and iron, surpassing other plant parts and ginger samples. Conversely, ginger rhizome has higher moisture content but lower protein and mineral levels. These findings highlight the distinct health benefits and nutritional superiority of Moringa leaves, suggesting their potential as a valuable dietary supplement, particularly in addressing deficiencies in calcium and iron.

Potentials of Zingiber officinale and Allium sativum ethanol extracts to inhibit oxidative stress and inflammation resulting from cancer inducement with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene

Oxidative stress is the outcome of an imbalance between systemic manifestation of reactive oxygen species and a biological systems ability to readily detoxify the reactive intermediates in order to repair the resulting damage. This imbalance causes toxic effects through production of peroxides and free radicals. This study evaluated the potentials of Zingiber officinale and Allium sativum ethanol extracts to inhibit oxidative stress and inflammation resulting from cancer inducement with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) using female Swiss virgin Albino rats of 7–8 weeks old. The plants were extracted with ethanol and assayed for tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and nuclear factor kappa B (NFk-β) to indicate inflammatory responses; malondialdehyde, superoxide dismuthase, catalase and glutathione as indicators of oxidative stress.. All assays were done using standard methods. Phytocompounds in Zingiber officinale were: alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, steroids and terpenoids while those in Allium sativum were alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, and glycosides. The actual lethal doses (LD50) of Zingiber officinale, Allium sativum and combination of the two were 8,660, 4,472, and 5,477 mg/kg body weight respectively. Zingiber officinale and Allium sativum ethanol extracts either as mono-therapy or in combination decreased the serum levels of malondialdehyde, and increased superoxide dismuthase, catalase and glutathione. They also decreased tumor necrosis factor-alpha and nuclear factor kappa B significantly (p˂0.05) when compared with control group. These were most remarkable in group 8. In conclusion, Zingiber officinale and Allium sativum ameliorated the oxidative stress and inflammation responses most remarkably when given at the proportion of ZO:AS = 6:4 (318:212 mg/kg body weight).

Modulatory Effect of Aqueous Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Extract on Gentamicin Sulfate Induced Oxidative Stress and Nephrotoxicity in Female Albino Rats

Modulatory Effect of Aqueous Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Extract on Gentamicin Sulfate Induced Oxidative Stress and Nephrotoxicity in Female Albino Rats

Assessing the impact of cold plasma rotational dynamics on ginger's total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, surface structure and color using response surface methodology

This study investigated the efficacy of a rotational chamber in enhancing the effectiveness of cold plasma application to augment antioxidant activity and phenolic content in ginger (Zingiber officinale). To address the limitation of cold plasma (CP), which predominantly treats only the surface layers of samples, we implemented rotational techniques during the treatment. This methodology facilitates a more uniform treatment, ensuring that all layers of the samples are effectively exposed to plasma. We employed response surface methodology (RSM) to analyze the effects of three variables: power (10–90 W), treatment time (1–30 min), and pressure (0.4–0.9 mbar), along with a categorical variable for rotation. CP treatment (65 W, 0.7 mbar, 1 min with rotation) resulted in a significant increase in antioxidant activity compared to non-treated samples, determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) ABTS assays, and total phenolic content reaching their highest values of 100.9 Trolox equivalent (TE) μmol⋅L−1, 8.23 Fe2+⋅g−1, 0.293 μmol⋅g−1, and 32.80 gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g, respectively. There were no significant changes in color. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that the samples treated with CP exhibited a smoother surface, albeit with minimal damage to cell walls in our selected samples. Including a rotational feature as a unique upgrade to the cold plasma, the glow discharge device demonstrated positive enhancements and preservation of antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds.

In Vitro Evaluation of Prebiotic Potential of Red Ginger (Zingiber officinale var. rubrum) Rhizome Ethanol Extract on Lactobacillus acidophilus and Escherichia coli

Prebiotics, including carbohydrates and phenols, promote beneficial gut bacteria (probiotics). Red ginger (Zingiber officinale var. rubrum) rhizomes, rich in these compounds, have been traditionally used in medicine but their prebiotic potential remains unexplored. This study investigated the in vitro prebiotic effects of Z. officinale var. rubrum rhizomes on Lactobacillus acidophilus (beneficial) and Escherichia coli (opportunistic) bacteria. Prebiotic activity was assessed using a turbidimetric method, measuring bacterial growth via UV-Vis spectrophotometry at 600 nm. The prebiotic index and percentage inhibition were calculated to evaluate the impact on bacterial growth. Additionally, total phenol content was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu method. Results indicate that Z. officinale var. rubrum rhizomes exhibit prebiotic properties, stimulating L. acidophilus growth (prebiotic index of 156.035 and percentage inhibition value of -153.128%) while inhibiting E. coli growth (54.343% inhibition). The rhizomes contained 31.15 mg GAE/g extract of total phenols and 23.55% carbohydrates. These findings suggest that Z. officinale var. rubrum rhizomes possess prebiotic potential, warranting further investigation for potential applications in gut health management.

Comparative Analysis of Essential Oil Profiles From Emprit Ginger Rhizome (Zingiber officinale var. amarum) Grown in Different Locations and Antibacterial Activity Againts Staphylococcus aureus

Indonesia, as a tropical country, boasts significant biodiversity, particularly regarding its flora and fauna. The country's medicinal plants are one inherited natural resource passed down through generations. The "emprit ginger” (Zingiber officinale var. amarum), a native Indonesian medicinal plant, is often employed in treating various diseases. Scientifically, the primary constituent of emprit ginger is the phenolic ketone homolog compound, gingerol, known for its antioxidant activity. In addition to its antioxidant potential, emprit ginger exhibits potential as an antibacterial agent. However, herbal substances used for therapeutic purposes often yield inconsistent effects due to the fluctuating chemical composition in the plants, typically a result of varying growing locations. These location differences can cause discrepancies in the content of active metabolites. Therefore, data on the chemical profile of medicinal plants is paramount for the standardization process. This study was conducted by obtaining essential oils from the rhizomes of emprit ginger, extracted via steam distillation obtained from various cultivation lands in Ponorogo, Magetan, Pacitan, Wonogiri, Karanganyar, Boyolali, Semarang, Magelang, Purworejo, Temanggung, Wonosobo, Banyumas, Bantul, and Kulonprogo. One of the efforts in standardizing natural materials involves the analysis of their metabolite profiles. The emprit ginger essential oil profile was obtained through Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) testing. The emprit ginger essential oil profile was analyzed using a multivariate calibration of Principal Component Analysis utilizing SIMCA 17 software. Antibacterial activities were assessed using the microdilution method on Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. The analysis of antibacterial activity was determined using the Probit analysis method to ascertain the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) 50 value. This study also involved the extraction of essential oils from emprit ginger rhizomes. The individual profiles of these essential oils were determined via Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry. The essential oil profiles of emprit ginger were subjected to a multivariate calibration using Principal Component Analysis facilitated by the SIMCA 17 software. Antibacterial activity tests were conducted using the microdilution method on Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. The antibacterial activity was ascertained using probit analysis to derive the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration 50 (MIC 50) values. The highest MIC 50 of emprit ginger rhizome on Staphylococcus aureus bacteria was found in samples from Wonogiri, with a concentration of 0.3408%. Compounds displaying significant discriminative influence on Staphylococcus aureus bacteria included Z-Citral, Geranyl acetate, Zingiberenol, Beta-Myrcene, (1S0-2,6,6-Trimethylbicyclo [3.1.1] hept-2-ene, and Bicyclo [2.2.1]heptan-2-ol, 1,7,7-trimethyl, exo-(CAS)

Effect of Ginger Supplementation on Liver Enzymes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Ginger (Zingiber officinale), as one of the herbal medicines, has high antioxidant activity. It may have protective effects against hepatotoxicity. This study seeks to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis on the impact of ginger on liver enzymes. Methods: The present systematic review and meta-analysis study adhered to the guidelines outlined in the PRISMA 2020 statement. A comprehensive literature search was carried out in the Medline database (PubMed), Google Scholar, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library until the conclusion of February 2021. All interventional animal studies were included. The selected studies were the ones that examined the impact of ginger on serum liver enzymes. Results: Out of 741 articles, 39 studies were incorporated into the systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled results suggested that ginger significantly reduced alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (standardized mean difference (SMD): 2.52, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.12 to 2.93), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (SMD: 3.03, 95% CI: 2.48 to 3.58), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (SMD: 2.10, 95% CI: 1.60 to 2.60). Conclusion: Ginger has favorable effects on liver enzymes. It shows potential as a beneficial complementary therapy for higher levels of ALT, AST, and ALP because of its useful effects and negligible side effects.

Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Contents, Antioxidant, Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Activities and Toxicities of Ethanol Extracts from Curcuma Mangga, Zingiber Officinale and Zingiber Montanum

The objectives of this study were to determine and to compare total phenolic and flavonoid contents (TPC and TFC), antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities and toxicities of ethanol extracts from Curcuma mangga, Zingiber officinale and Zingiber montanum. The study was performed by determinations of 1) TPC using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent method and TFC using colorimetric method of aluminum chloride, 2) antioxidant activities using DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assay, 3) antibacterial activities through evaluation inhibition of bacterial growth, MIC and MBC against Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus, 4) anti-inflammatory activity using Griess reaction to measure nitric oxide (NO) production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells and 5) toxicities using lethality assay in brine shrimps and MTT assay in the RAW 264.7 cells. The results revealed that all the extracts possess TPC and TFC, antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities which the highest TPC and TFC and strongest activities were found in the Z. montanum extract. However, the extracts showed mildly to moderately toxic to brine shrimps, consider to Artemia salina nauplii, and nontoxic to the RAW 264.7 cells. And also, the results confirm the utilization of these extracts for the treatment and/or management of diseases that related to antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities.

Involvement of characterized polysaccharide extracted from natural source “Zingiber officinale” in the development performance of whipped cream

Involvement of characterized polysaccharide extracted from natural source “Zingiber officinale” in the development performance of whipped cream

Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Phytochemicals in Sayeok-Tang via UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS and UPLC-TQ-MS/MS.

Sayeok-tang (SYT) is a traditional herbal formula comprising three medicinal herbs: Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Zingiber officinale, and Aconitum carmichaeli. Several studies have employed liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) to qualitatively analyze the components and metabolites of SYT in vitro and in vivo; however, studies on quantitative analysis of SYT, which is important for quality control, are absent or limited to only a few components. In this study, ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole (UPLC-Q)-Orbitrap-MS was used to screen the phytochemicals of SYT, revealing a total of 42 compounds. Among them, 24 compounds were simultaneously quantified within 20 min via UPLC-TQ-MS/MS in the multiple reaction monitoring mode. The developed analytical method was validated for its linearity (r2 ≥ 0.9992), precision (0.36-2.96%), accuracy (-6.52-4.64%), and recovery (94.39-119.07%) for all analytes, exhibiting acceptable results. The validated method was applied in the analysis of SYT extracts, and the 24 compounds were quantified in the range of 0.004-6.882 mg/g (CV ≤ 3.746%). Among them, liquiritin apioside (6.870-6.933 mg/g), glycyrrhizic acid (5.418-5.540 mg/g), and liquiritin (1.303-1.331 mg/g) from G. uralensis were identified as the relatively abundant compounds. The presented validated analytical method is highly promising for the comprehensive quality control of SYT, offering fast, highly sensitive, and reliable analysis.

Recent developments in the therapeutics of SARS-CoV-2 infection

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a highly transmittable respiratory virus that causes COVID-19 disease. Since its emergence in the early 2000s, SARS has posed significant public health challenges and continues to be a concern. This review provides an overview of current treatment strategies for SARS-CoV and explores the potential utility of herbal molecules in combating this viral infection. The primary treatment approach for SARS-CoV has historically centered on supportive care, which includes oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, and antipyretic medications to manage symptoms. However, with the ongoing advancement of medical research and our evolving understanding of the virus, several antiviral drugs have been developed and repurposed to target SARS-CoV. Recent developments in the field of herbal medicine have drawn attention to the potential efficacy of natural compounds in the management of viral infections, including SARS. Herbal molecules, characterized by their diverse bioactive constituents, exhibit antiviral properties that could be harnessed to mitigate SARS symptoms and inhibit viral replication. Ocimum sanctum, Tinospora cordifolia, Zingiber officinale, Curcuma longa, Panax ginseng, and Aloe vera have been identified for their immunomodulatory effects. This review highlights promising herbal molecules such as quercetin, and curcumin, which have demonstrated antiviral effects in–vitro and in some preclinical studies. While current treatment strategies for SARS primarily rely on supportive care and antiviral medications, the exploration of herbal molecules presents an exciting avenue for potential adjunctive therapies. Further research is required to validate their efficacy, safety profiles, and mechanisms of action. A holistic approach that combines conventional medicine with herbal remedies may offer new insights into the treatment of SARS and other viral respiratory illnesses.

Phytochemical analysis and pharmacological activities of essential oils extracted from Zingiber officinale (Roscoe) used in mediterranean diet: in vitro and in silico studies

ABSTRACT For their pungency and tanginess, ginger rhizomes (Zingiber officinale) are often used in cooking. Ginger has long been used in traditional medicine and home remedies to treat pain and inflammation. This research tests Z. officinale (EOZ) essential oils’ chemical composition, insecticidal, and antioxidant properties in vitro and in silico. EOZ yielded 0.69% of root mass with 23 chemicals. The main chemicals in EOZ were α-zingiberene (23.850%), Geranial (14.160%), and (E,E)-α-farnesene (9.980%). EOZ demonstrated noteworthy antioxidant activity in all tests, with an IC50 of 9.53 ± 0.41 mg/mL in the DPPH test and an EC50 of 87.46 ± 3.19 mg/mL in the FRAP system. The results indicate that EOZ has strong efficacy against C. maculatus, even at low concentrations (1.00 μL/100 g). Note that EOZ killed 20 ± 0% and 13.33 ± 4.44% of adult C. maculatus in inhalation and contact tests, respectively. High concentration (20.00 μL/100 g) resulted in 100% adult mortality in inhalation tests and 96.67 ± 4.44% mortality in contact testing. We then used molecular docking to identify EO major component binding modes by targeting insecticidal and antioxidant protein structures 1R20 and 1R4U. This research helps create insecticides and antioxidants from common ginger essential oil.

Preventing social defeat stress-induced behavioural and neurochemical alterations by repeated treatment with a mix of Centella asiatica, Echinacea purpurea and Zingiber officinale standardized extracts.

Background: Prolonged exposure to stress is a risk factor for the onset of several disorders. Modern life is burdened by a pervasive prevalence of stress, which represents a major societal challenge requiring new therapeutic strategies. In this context, botanical drug-based therapies can have a paramount importance. Methods: Here we studied the preventive effects of a repeated treatment (p.o. daily, 3weeks) with a combination of Centella asiatica (200mg/kg), Echinacea purpurea (20mg/kg) and Zingiber officinale (150mg/kg) standardized extracts, on the chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) deleterious outcomes. After 10days of CSDS exposure, male mice' performances were evaluated in paradigms relevant for social (social interaction test), emotional (tail suspension test), cognitive (novel object recognition) domains as well as for pain perception (cold plate and von Frey tests) and motor skills (rotarod). Mice were then sacrificed, the spinal cords, hippocampi and frontal cortices dissected and processed for RT-PCR analysis. Results: Extracts mix treatment prevented stress-induced social aversion, memory impairment, mechanical and thermal allodynia and reduced behavioural despair independently of stress exposure. The treatment stimulated hippocampal and cortical BDNF and TrkB mRNA levels and counteracted stress-induced alterations in pro- (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) and anti-inflammatory (IL4, IL10) cytokines expression in the same areas. It also modulated expression of pain related genes (GFAP and Slc1a3) in the spinal cord. Conclusion: The treatment with the extracts mix obtained from C. asiatica, E. purpurea and Z. officinale may represent a promising strategy to promote resilience and prevent the deleterious effects induced by extended exposure to psychosocial stress.

Exploration of Indonesian Herbal Plants as Aphrodisiac agents and Testing their Activity in Animal Testing

Indonesia's abundant natural resources have spurred interest in exploring certain plants believed to possess aphrodisiac properties that can enhance male libido and reproductive health. This research endeavor is designed to delve into the extraction of compounds from various plant species, followed by a comprehensive analysis of their chemical constituents. Subsequently, aphrodisiac activity assessments are conducted on male rats, focusing on key parameters such as mating frequency, climbing behavior, and coital activities. Additionally, this investigation encompasses the determination of the percentage of relative testicular weight in relation to body weight and histopathological examination of testicular organs. The findings emanating from the extracts of Piper retrofractum (PRE), Solanum melongena fruit (EE), Ocimum basilicum leaves (OBLE), Watermelon albedo (WAE), and Zingiber officinale Var Rubrum rhizoma (ZRE) reveal the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins. Notably, EE, administered at a dosage of 30mg, yields the most prominent aphrodisiac effects in the test subjects, as evidenced by heightened mating frequency, climbing activity, and coital behaviors. Furthermore, the relative testicular weight following treatment with 30mg of PRE closely resembles the impact observed with sildenafil at a dosage of 10 mg/kgbw.

Evaluation of antifungal activities of some Indian dietary spices against pathogenic Rhizopus arrhizus and Rhizopus stolonifer

Rhizopus arrhizus and Rhizopus stolonifer are pathogenic fungi responsible for causing ‘soft rot’ disease in fruits and vegetables, as well as life-threatening ‘mucormycosis’ in animals and humans, especially immunocompromised hosts. The use of synthetic fungicides and chemical preservatives to inhibit microbes is being challenged due to their toxic effects on human health and the environment. This has prompted researchers to investigate novel antimicrobials that are natural and safe. Current study aimed to evaluate the antifungal activities of essential oils (EOs), powdered (PWD) forms, and water extracts (WEs) of ten Indian dietary spices (Allium sativum (Als), Brassica nigra (Brn), Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Ciz), Cuminum cyminum (Cuc), Curcuma longa (Cul), Mentha piperita (Mep), Ocimum sanctum (Ocs), Syzygium aromaticum (Sya), Trigonella foenum-graecum (Trf), and Zingiber officinale (Zio)) against R. arrhizus (NCIM877) and R. stolonifer (NCIM1139). Spice agar method was used for investigating antifungal potential of PWD spices. Impregnated paper disc method and broth dilution technique were followed for screening the antifungal activities of EOs and WEs. Results revealed that EOs of six spices (Als, Brn, Ciz, Cuc, Mep, Sya), and PWD forms of four spices (Brn, Ciz, Cuc, Sya) inhibited the growth of both fungi in culture media, effectively. WEs of all ten spices remained ineffective in arresting the growth of tested fungal strains. R. stolonifer was found more sensitive compared to R. arrhizus towards tested substances. Based on these findings, further in vivo studies on PWD forms of Ccb, Ccm, and Sya and EOs of Als, Brn, Ccb, Ccm, Mep, Ocs and Sya may establish spices as ‘botanical antimicrobials’ to prolong the shelf life of valuable horticultural crops by arresting the growth of R. arrhizus and R. stolonifer.

Gingerol-zinc complex loaded 3D-printed calcium phosphate for controlled release application.

The therapeutic potential of natural medicines in treating bone disorders is well-established. Modifications in formulation or molecular structure can enhance their efficacy. Gingerol, an osteogenic active compound derived from ginger roots (Zingiber officinale), can form metal ion complexes. Zinc (Zn), a trace element that combats bacterial infections and promotes osteoblast proliferation, can be complexed with gingerol to form a G-Zn+2 complex. This study investigates a porous 3D-printed (3DP) calcium phosphate (CaP) scaffold loaded with the G-Zn+2 complex for drug release and cellular interactions. The scaffold is coated with polycaprolactone (PCL) to control the drug release. Diffusion-mediated kinetics results in 50% releaseof the G-Zn+2 complex over 6weeks. The G-Zn+2 complex demonstrates cytotoxicity against MG-63 osteosarcoma cells, indicated by the formation of apoptotic bodies and ruptured cell morphology on the scaffolds. G-Zn+2 PCL-coated scaffolds show a 1.2 ± 0.1-fold increase in osteoblast cell viability, and an 11.6 ± 0.5% increase in alkaline phosphatase compared to untreated scaffolds. Treated scaffolds also exhibit reduced bacterial colonization against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, highlighting the antibacterial potential of the G-Zn+2 complex. The functionalized 3DP CaP scaffold with the G-Zn+2 complex shows significant potential for enhancing bone regeneration and preventing infections in low-load-bearing applications.

Comparative protective activity of aqueous Zingiber officinale root and Theobroma cacao seed extracts on lead acetate-induced cerebellar toxicity in rats

BackgroundLead has been associated with human activities since time immemorial and is reported to induce antioxidant and neurobehavioral impairments in animals and humans. The present study examined and compared the protective activity of aqueous Zingiber officinale root (ZO) and Theobroma cacao seed (TC) extracts against Pb-induced cerebellar toxicity. MethodologyTwenty-four rats, divided into four equal groups, received as follows: 1 ml H2O/day; 100 mg.kg-1 body weight (BW)/day of lead acetate (Pb) only; 500 mg.kg-1 BW/day of ZO and 100 mg.kg-1 BW/day of Pb; and 500 mg.kg-1 BW/day of TC and 100 mg.kg-1 BW/day of Pb, orally for twenty-eight days. Afterwards, neurobehavioural tests were conducted and the harvested cerebellums were used for antioxidant enzymes activity, Pb and lipid peroxidation concentrations as well as histological evaluations, following the sacrifice of experimental rats. ResultsFindings revealed significant neurobehavioural and antioxidant enzymes impairment, elevated levels of cerebellar Pb and lipid peroxidation, and microstructure alterations in the cerebellum of Pb-exposed rats. Although pretreatment with ZO and TC significantly attenuated these Pb-induced effects, ZO was more potent in its neuroprotective activity than TC. ConclusionTaken together, ZO and TC can be further developed as novel neuroprotective agents against Pb toxicity.

Effectiveness of Red Ginger (Zingiber officinale var. Rubrum) Foot Hydrotherapy in Lowering Blood Pressure among Pregnant Women with Hypertension

Pregnancy hypertension is one of the complications of pregnancy. One nonpharmacological treatment to reduce hypertension is the foot hydrotherapy method with red ginger (Zingiber officinale var. rubrum). The essential oil content of red ginger provides a warm effect and spicy aroma so that blood vessels widen and blood flow becomes smooth. The research aims to determine the effectiveness of red ginger foot hydrotherapy in lowering blood pressure among pregnant women with hypertension. This one-group pretest-posttest pre-experimental study design was conducted at the Talaga Community Health Centre, West Java, from May 2023 to July 2023. The sample was 32 pregnant women with hypertension. Bivariate analysis test using paired t-test. The average systolic blood pressure measurement results for pregnant women before the intervention were 154.09 mmHg, and after the intervention was given 140.22 mmHg, there was a decrease of 13.87 mmHg. The average diastole for pregnant women before the intervention was 100.22; after the intervention, it was 91.62, resulting in a reduction of around 8.6 mmHg. The paired t-test with a p-value <0.001 shows the effectiveness of foot hydrotherapy with red ginger in reducing blood pressure in pregnant women with hypertension. Red ginger using the foot hydrotherapy method has been proven effective in lowering blood pressure in pregnant women. To reduce the risk factors for pregnancy with hypertension, pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapy is a solution that needs to be considered. This research can become a reference for evidence-based midwifery practice in providing midwifery care.

Micropropagation of three ginger cultivars and the subsequent growth and rhizome yield assessment and phytochemical composition analysis

Farmers have turned to biotechnology techniques to produce ginger, due to disease issues. Micropropagation is a proven and effective means for mass production of disease-free plants. Our research focused on ginger cultivar specific reactions (from culture initiation to rhizome harvest) to plant growth regulators (PGRs) to determine if plant response to PGRs is cultivar specific. Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) cultivars studied were: Chinese White (CW), Hawaii Yellow (HY), and Khing Yai (KY) under benzylaminopurine (BA) versus kinetin (KT) treatments using MS basal medium to micropropagate ginger seedlings and subsequent growth and yield performance and phytochemical composition analysis. In vitro culture data were collected every month for number of buds and shoots (and shoot length) produced per initiating bud and shoot growth. Mature seedlings were subsequently transplanted in a greenhouse with a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 4 replications, 18 plants per replication (Main Plot = Cultivar, Sub Plot = PGR) for a total of 72 pots/plants. Growth data included number of stems per seedling, stem length, and stem diameter. Rhizome yield data included number of pieces of rhizome per seedling, and rhizome weights (biological, edible, and total rhizome weights respectively). Phytochemical composition analysis of ginger rhizome/PGR treatment included average amount of 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 10-gingerol, 6-shogoal, 8-shogoal, and 10-shogoal. Data was analyzed using SAS OnDemand for Academics with PROC GLM at α=0.05 level of significance. As ginger tissue culture seedlings progressed in culture, KT was more suitable for multiplication of buds, BA more suitable for proliferation of shoots, and KT matured ginger tissue culture seedlings at a higher rate than BA. CW had the highest rhizome yield and least amount of biological roots in comparison to other cultivars. CW produced the least amount of 8-gingerol, 10-gingerol, 8-shogoal and 10-shogoal of all three cultivars and with no significant change between two PGR treatments. In comparison, HY produced the highest amount of 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 10-gingerol, 6-shogoal, and 8-shogoal, followed by KY and CW, when micropropagated with BA. KY produced the highest amount of 10-shogoal when micropropagated with BA and the highest amount of 6-gingerol, 6-shogoal, 8-shogoal, and 10-shogoal when micropropagated with KT.