Inhibition of human ether-a-go-go-related gene K+ currents expressed in HEK293 cells by three gingerol components from ginger

Objectives Gingerols are bioactive compounds derived from ginger, our experiment investigates the effects of 6-, 8- and 10-Gin on the human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) K+ channels by using patch clamp technology. Key findings hERG K+ currents were suppressed by 6-, 8- and 10-Gin in a concentration-dependent manner. The IC50 values of 6-, 8- and 10-Gin were 41.5, 16.1 and 86.5 mu M for the hERG K+ currents, respectively. The maximum inhibitory effects caused by 6-, 8- and 10-Gin were 44.3% +/- 2.0%, 88.6% +/- 1.3% and 63.1% +/- 1.1%, respectively, and the effects were almost completely reversible. Conclusion These findings suggest that 8-Gin is the most potent hERG K+ channel inhibitor among gingerol components and may offer a new approach for understanding and treating cancer.