Ginger Extract Suppresses Inflammatory Response and Maintains Barrier Function in Human Colonic Epithelial Caco‐2 Cells Exposed to Inflammatory Mediators

Abstract The beneficial effects of ginger in the management of gastrointestinal disturbances have been reported. In this study, the anti‐inflammatory potential of ginger extract was assessed in a cellular model of gut inflammation. In addition, the effects of ginger extract and its major active compounds on intestinal barrier function were evaluated. The response of Caco‐2 cells following exposure to a mixture of inflammatory mediators [interleukin [IL]‐1β, 25 ng/mL; lipopolysaccharides [LPS], 10 ng/mL; tumor necrosis factor [TNF]‐α, 50 ng/mL; and interferon [INF]‐γ, 50 ng/mL] were assessed by measuring the levels of secreted IL‐6 and IL‐8. In addition, the mRNA levels of cyclooxygenase‐2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase were measured. Moreover, the degree of nuclear factor (NF)‐κB inhibition was examined, and the intestinal barrier function was determined by measuring the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐dextran transfer. It was observed that ginger extract and its constituents improved inflammatory responses by decreasing the levels of nitrite, PGE2, IL‐6, and IL‐8 via NF‐κB inhibition. The ginger extract also increased the TEER and decreased the transfer of FITC‐dextran from the apical side of the epithelium to the basolateral side. Taken together, these results show that ginger extract may be developed as a functional food for the maintenance of gastrointestinal health.