[6]-Gingerol prevents gamma radiation-induced cell damage in HepG2 cells

The mechanism by which [6]-gingerol exerts radioprotective effects remains unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the radioprotective effects of [6]-gingerol in HepG2 cells. Our results showed that 50 % cell death and GSH depletion were caused by 5 Gy gamma irradiation. [6]-Gingerol pretreatment partially prevented those effects. Moreover, the elevated expression of proapoptotic protein p53 and Bax following gamma irradiation was decreased by [6]-gingerol pretreatment whereas the declined expression of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 was increased. It was concluded that [6]-gingerol has a protective effect against radiation-induced cell damage related to oxidative stress and apoptosis.