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This paper presents the initial exploration of the free radical scavenging capabilities of peptides derived from protein hydrolysates (PPH) obtained from Zingiber cassumunar rhizomes (Phlai). To replicate the conditions of gastrointestinal digestion, a combination of pepsin and pancreatin proteolysis was employed to generate these hydrolysates. Subsequently, the hydrolysate underwent fractionation using molecular weight cut-off membranes at 10, 5, 3, and 0.65 kDa. The fraction with a molecular weight less than 0.65 kDa exhibited the highest levels ABTS, DPPH, FRAP, and NO radical scavenging activity. Following this, RP-HPLC was used to further separate the fraction with a molecular weight less than 0.65 kDa into three sub-fractions. Among these, the F5 sub-fraction displayed the most prominent radical-scavenging properties. De novo peptide sequencing via quadrupole-time-of-flight-electron spin induction-mass spectrometry identified a pair of novel peptides: Asp-Gly-Ile-Phe-Val-Leu-Asn-Tyr (DGIFVLNY or DY-8) and Ile-Pro-Thr-Asp-Glu-Lys (IPTDEK or IK-6). Database analysis confirmed various properties, including biological activity, toxicity, hydrophilicity, solubility, and potential allergy concerns. Furthermore, when tested on the human adenocarcinoma colon (Caco-2) cell line, two synthetic peptides demonstrated cellular antioxidant activity in a concentration-dependent manner. These peptides were also assessed using the FITC Annexin V apoptosis detection kit with PI, confirming the induction of apoptosis. Notably, the DY-8 peptide induced apoptosis, upregulated mRNA levels of caspase-3, -8, and -9, and downregulated Bcl-2, as confirmed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Western blot analysis indicated increased pro-apoptotic Bax expression and decreased anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression in Caco-2 cells exposed to the DY-8 peptide. Molecular docking analysis revealed that the DY-8 peptide exhibited binding affinity with Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, and Mcl-1, suggesting potential utility in combating colon cancer as functional food ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The examination of photocatalyst powders for the total removal of pollutants from aqueous solutions is a vital research subject within the realm of environmental preservation. The objective of this study is to develop a photocatalyst heterojunction consisting of Zingiber/ZnO-H for the degradation of both the reactive red dye (RR 141) and ofloxacin antibiotic in wastewater. The current investigation outlines the process of synthesising a composite material by combining Zingiber montanum extract with zinc oxide (ZnO) by a hydrothermal method. The synthesis was conducted at a temperature of 180°C for a period of 4 hours. Consequently. The photocatalyst with a constructed heterojunction shown a notable enhancement in its photocatalytic activity as a result of the improved efficiency in charge separation at the interface. The application of economically viable solar energy facilitated the complete eradication of harmful pollutants through the process of detoxification. The removal of impurities occurs by a process that follows a first-order kinetics. Among the pollutants, RR141 demonstrates the greatest rate constant at 0.02 min-1, while ofloxacin has a rate constant of 0.01 min-1. The assessment of the stability of the produced photocatalyst was conducted after undergoing five cycles. This study additionally investigated the influence of sunshine on degradation, uncovering degradation rates of 97% for RR141 and 99% for ofloxacin when exposed to UV Lamp, and degradation rates of 97% for RR141 and 95% for ofloxacin when exposed to Solar Light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zingiber purpureum Roscoe, known as plai in Thailand, is a perennial plant of the Zingiberaceae family and has traditionally been used in Southeast Asian countries to treat inflammation, pain, and asthma. In this study, we performed the characterization of the volatile constituents in ethyl acetate extracts of plai. Ethyl acetate extracts derived from the rhizomes of plai were subjected to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and the key peaks in the total ion current chromatograms were annotated or identified. In total, twenty-one compounds were identified using isolation procedures or standards, and nine compounds were annotated by comparing their Kovats retention index (RI) and electron ionization (EI) mass spectra with those in the literature. Most of the identifications were inconsistent with the tentative annotations found via library search and suggested that some peaks were incorrectly assigned in previous studies. Thus, to avoid further misannotations and contribute to the research on dereplication, the RI value, EI mass spectral data, and NMR spectroscopy data of the isolated compounds are reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding species boundaries maintenance in the face of hybridization/introgression is an intriguing yet complex topic in evolutionary biology. The underlying mechanisms, however, remain elusive. To address this, we propose to investigate the role of climatic shifts in shaping genetic structure and influencing species boundaries. We combine multilocus genetic data and species distribution modeling to explore how past and current climatic shifts affect the genetic structure and demographic history of two Taiwan endemic gingers, Zingiber pleiostachyum and Z. shuanglongense. We identified a well-delimited genetic structure with evidence of admixture, indicating incomplete reproductive isolation between the two gingers. This is likely due to secondary contact and range overlap during the last glacial maximum, leading to sporadic instances of hybridization. Niche overlap tests based on climate and soil data indicate that these two gingers occupy similar but nonidentical ecological niches. Furthermore, we found that the considerable differences in their current geographic distribution and altitude preferences might have resulted from different seed dispersal capabilities and competitive exclusion due to their similar niche preferences. Our results reveal a model where altitudinal differentiation and dispersal strategy synergistically reinforce the species divergence, thereby illuminating the importance of these factors in shaping and maintaining the island's biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gold nanoparticles have been used as drug carriers and imaging reagents. The plant extract-capped gold nanoparticles provide better properties than chemically synthesized gold nanoparticles. In this study, Zingiber zerumbet extract-mediated green production of gold nanoparticles (Z. zerumbet@Au NPs) was established. Based on the UV-visible spectroscopy and transmission electron microscope (TEM) results, most Z. zerumbet@Au NPs were spherical. When more Z. zerumbet extracts were added, more spherical nanoparticles were formed. The hydrodynamic size changed slightly along with time, and the average size was approximately 170 nm. Capping of Z. zerumbet extract on the surface of gold nanoparticles was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). In general, phenolic compounds or flavonoid compounds were considered to be the reducing agent. However, zerumbone was identified as the reducing agent in this study. The resulting oxidized products were characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). As a result, the solvent was proven to be involved in nanoparticle synthesis. Overall, Z zerumbet@Au NPs showed great potential to be used in cosmetic- or biomedicine-related fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress is related to several metabolic diseases, including hyperlipidemia. Previous studies have shown the antioxidant properties of Zingiber cassumunar rhizomes and Guazuma ulmifolia leaves. The objective of this study was to see how Z. cassumunar rhizomes, G. ulmifolia leaves extracts, and their combinations affect antihyperlipidemic and hepatoprotective activity in a high-fat diet-fed (HFD) rat. The water extract of Z. cassumunar rhizomes and G. ulmifolia leaves was evaporated in a freeze dryer to produce dry extracts. The Wistar rats were assigned into six groups at random: normal, positive, negative, Z. cassumunar rhizome extract at 400 mg/kg BW (ZC), G. ulmifolia leaf extract at 50 mg/kg BW (GU), and the combination of Z. cassumunar rhizome extract and G. ulmifolia leaf extract at (350+50) mg/kg BW (ZC+GU). The rats were fed HFD for 28 days, and the treatment groups also received the extracts for the last 14 days. The study revealed that ZC, GU, and ZC+GU significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the levels of cholesterol and triglyceride when compared to the negative control. These treatments also showed a hepatoprotective effect by reducing the serum glutamic pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) and histopathological observation. The conclusion of the study showed that ZC, GU, and ZC+GU play an essential role in their antihyperlipidemic and hepatoprotective activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zingiber loerzingii Valeton is one of the species in the Zingiberaceae family found throughout Aceh and North Sumatra, Indonesia, with slimy flowers, yellowish white color, and dark orange stamens. Z. loerzingii is endemic in North Sumatra with a very limited distribution. The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources classifies this plant into the vulnerable ones category. This study aims to examine the potential of DNA barcoding from nuclear DNA (ITS2) and DNA chloroplasts (rbcL and trnL-F) to identify Z. loerzingii plants. The research sample was obtained from two main distribution areas of Z. loerzingii in North Sumatra, Indonesia, namely Sibolangit Nature Reserve and Tangkahan Conservation Forest. The results showed that all the DNA barcode markers used were able to classify Z. loerzingii into the same group in the phylogenetic analysis. ITS marker is the most effective marker for classifying Zingiberaceae species compared to rbcL and trnL-F markers. The ITS2 marker has the lowest level of intraspecific and intraspecific genetic distance overlap compared to the rbcL and trnL-F markers. This research is expected to provide information related to the DNA barcode of Z. loerzingii in an effort to conserve this rare plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic resistance is rising across the world. For a very long time, bitter ginger (Zingiber zerumbet) has been used as one of the most popular herbal remedies to treat a wide range of common diseases. Ginger has been shown to have antioxidant and antibacterial activity. It has various bioactive chemicals that might be utilized as an alternative treatment option for many infectious diseases. The present study aimed to examine the biochemical profile of ginger, antioxidant, and antibacterial activity against selective endodontic microbes. Antioxidant was measured using DPPH and antibacterial activity was performed using disk diffusion tests. Streptococcus mutants, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus spp., and Lactobacillus spp. were tested for antibacterial activity. Before evaluating the dried extracts, all solvents were eliminated using rotary evaporation. The obtained IC50 value revealed that ethanol extract had the greatest antioxidant activity. Concerning each bacterium, the plant extracts demonstrated considerable antibacterial activity (p =.001). Ethanol extracts showed the strongest antibacterial activity against the studied microorganisms. This study highlights that the Zingiber zerumbet (Z. zerumbet) is a strong antibacterial herb against multidrug‐resistant (MDR) gram‐positive bacteria. It may also be employed as a possible natural antioxidant source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zingiber longii Y.H.Tan & H.B.Ding, sp. nov. (Zingiberaceae) from southeast Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated here. It belongs to the Zingiber sect. Dymczewiczia due to the terminal inflorescence on the leafy shoot. It is similar to Z. rufopilosum in its rufous pilose leaf sheaths and ligules but differs from it by emarginate labellum, glabrous margins of the laminae and ostiole (vs. distinctly bifid labellum with an incision about 1/3 of its length, margins of laminae pilose and ciliate ostiole). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Zingiber montanum herbal compress remedy is a type of herbal medicine that can be used as an alternative treatment for improving pain symptoms. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of a Z. montanum herbal compress remedy for pain relief. PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Thai databases were systematically searched for relevant articles published from inception to December 2022. Only randomized clinical trials (RCTs) wherein the efficacy of the Z. montanum remedy was compared to that of a placebo or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were included. Six RCTs with a total of 812 patients were included in the analysis. The efficacy of the Z. montanum remedy had a significantly decreased pain score compared to the placebo (SMD = −0.63; 95% CI = −1.20, −0.06; I2 = 90%), but there was no significant difference when compared to NSAIDs (SMD = −0.61; 95% CI = −1.41, 0.81; I2 = 73%). Moreover, the efficacy of the Z. montanum remedy in terms of the flexibility score (SMD = 0.59; 95% CI −0.56, 1.74; I2 = 86.0%) and quality of life (SMD = 0.34; 95% CI −0.38, 1.05; I2 = 81.0%) was similar to that of the placebo. This meta-analysis demonstrates that the use of the Z. montanum herbal compress remedy significantly reduces the pain scores reported by patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ultraviolet A (UVA) irradiation can lead to skin damage and premature skin aging known as photoaging. This work found that UVA irradiation caused an imbalance between dermal matrix synthesis and degradation through the aberrant upregulation of transgelin (TAGLN) and studied the underlying molecular mechanism. Results: Co-immunoprecipitation and proximal ligation assay results showed that TAGLN can interact with USP1. USP1 can be retained in the cytoplasm by TAGLN in UVA-induced cells, which inhibits the interaction between USP1/zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1), promote the ubiquitination degradation of ZEB1, and lead to photoaging. TAGLN knockdown can release USP1 retention and help human skin fibroblasts (HSFs) resist UVA-induced damage. The interactive interface inhibitors of TAGLN/USP1 were screened via virtual docking to search for small molecules that inhibit photoaging. Zerumbone (Zer), a natural product isolated from Zingiber zerumbet (L.) Smith, was screened out. Zer can competitively bind TAGLN to reduce the retention of USP1 in the cytoplasm and the degradation of ZEB1 ubiquitination in UV-induced HSFs. The poor solubility and permeability of Zer can be improved by preparing it as a nanoemulsion, which can effectively prevent skin photoaging caused by UVA in wild-type (WT) mice. Zer cannot effectively resist the photoaging caused by UVA in Tagln−/− mice because of target loss. Conclusions: The present results showed that the interaction of TAGLN and USP1 can promote ZEB1 ubiquitination degradation in UV-induced skin photoaging, and Zer can be used as an interactive interface inhibitor of TAGLN/USP1 to prevent photoaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The genus Zingiber of the Zingiberaceae is distributed in tropical, subtropical, and in Far East Asia. This genus contains about 100–150 species, with many species valued as important agricultural, medicinal and horticultural resources. However, genomic resources and suitable molecular markers for species identification are currently sparse. Results: We conducted comparative genomics and phylogenetic analyses on Zingiber species. The Zingiber chloroplast genome (size range 162,507–163,711 bp) possess typical quadripartite structures that consist of a large single copy (LSC, 86,986–88,200 bp), a small single copy (SSC, 15,498–15,891 bp) and a pair of inverted repeats (IRs, 29,765–29,934 bp). The genomes contain 113 unique genes, including 79 protein coding genes, 30 tRNA and 4 rRNA genes. The genome structures, gene contents, amino acid frequencies, codon usage patterns, RNA editing sites, simple sequence repeats and long repeats are conservative in the genomes of Zingiber. The analysis of sequence divergence indicates that the following genes undergo positive selection (ccsA, ndhA, ndhB, petD, psbA, psbB, psbC, rbcL, rpl12, rpl20, rpl23, rpl33, rpoC2, rps7, rps12 and ycf3). Eight highly variable regions are identified including seven intergenic regions (petA-pabJ, rbcL-accD, rpl32-trnL-UAG, rps16-trnQ-UUG, trnC-GCA-psbM, psbC-trnS-UGA and ndhF-rpl32) and one genic regions (ycf1). The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the sect. Zingiber was sister to sect. Cryptanthium rather than sect. Pleuranthesis. Conclusions: This study reports 14 complete chloroplast genomes of Zingiber species. Overall, this study provided a solid backbone phylogeny of Zingiber. The polymorphisms we have uncovered in the sequencing of the genome offer a rare possibility (for Zingiber) of the generation of DNA markers. These results provide a foundation for future studies that seek to understand the molecular evolutionary dynamics or individual population variation in the genus Zingiber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has arisen as a global concern in recent decades. Plant extracts used in combination with antibiotics are promising against AMR, synergistically. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the component of the bitter ginger (Zingiber zerumbet) extract in different solvents using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), in addition to evaluate the antibacterial activity of these extracts, in combination with their antibiotic potential against four multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacterial strains (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus). Ethanol and the aqueous extracts of bitter ginger were prepared using a conventional solvent extraction method and were evaluated for their phytochemistry using HPLC, qualitatively and quantitatively. Moreover, the antibiotic susceptibility of the pathogenic isolates was determined. A disc diffusion assay was used to obtain the antimicrobial potential of the extracts alone and with antibiotics. Eight components were identified from the separation of the bitter ginger extract by HPLC. For AMR bacteria, the combination of the antibiotic solution with the bitter ginger crude extracts could improve its susceptibility of these antibiotics. This study indicates that the combination of an antibiotic solution with the bitter ginger crude extract exhibits potent antibacterial activities against MDR bacterial strains. Therefore, they can be used for the treatment of various diseases against the microbial pathogen and can be incorporated into medication for antibacterial therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skin fungal infection is still a serious public health problem due to the high number of cases. Even though medicines are available for this disease, drug resistance among patients has increased. Moreover, access to medicine is restricted in some areas. One of the therapeutic options is herbal medicine. This study aims to develop an ethosome formulation loaded with Zingiber zerumbet (L.) Smith. rhizome extract for enhanced antifungal activity in deep layer skin, which is difficult to cure. Ethosomes were successfully prepared by the cold method, and the optimized formulation was composed of 1% (w/v) phosphatidylcholine and 40% (v/v) ethanol. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images revealed that the ethosomes had a vesicle shape with a diameter of 205.6–368.5 nm. The entrapment of ethosomes was 31.58% and could inhibit the growth of Candida albicans at a concentration of 312.5 μg/mL. Finally, the ethosome system significantly enhanced the skin penetration and retention of the active compound (zerumbone) compared with the liquid extract. This study showed that Z. zerumbet (L.) rhizome extract could be loaded into ethosomes. The findings could be carried over to the next step for clinical application by conducting further in vivo penetration and permeation tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cr2O3 nanoparticles were prepared using Zingiber officinal extract which were used as an efficient and reusable catalyst in the practical synthesis of polysubstituted imidazoles by means of a convenient reaction of aromatic aldehydes with ammonium acetate and benzil under microwave irradiation and H2O as solvent. The structure of the compounds was studied by IR and 1H-NMR spectrum. The most important benefits of this process are operational simplicity, reasonable reaction times, and excellent yield of products. The results show that the optimal conditions for the formation of imidazole derivatives are as follow: power of 400 W, reaction time of 4–9 min, H2O as a solvent, and 15 mmol of catalyst amount. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pollution of heavy metal ions can cause damage to the human body through food, so developing a new biocompatible material that can remove the damage of heavy metal ions has a good application prospect. In this study, we obtained a new homogeneous polysaccharide composed of seven monosaccharides from Zingiber strioatum by using the method of separation and purification of polysaccharide. The results of adsorption behavior showed that the concentration, temperature and pH value could affect the adsorption effect of Zingiber strioatum polysaccharide (ZSP). Through model fitting of the data of adsorption time and metal concentration, the pseudo second-order kinetic model can well describe the kinetics of the adsorption process, and the adsorption isotherm data fit well with the Langmuir model. In the preliminary research results of adsorption mechanism, SEM showed the appearance of ZSP as flake and porous surface; EDX analysis confirmed the metal adsorption capacity of ZSP. Meanwhile, XPS and FT-IR further clarified the adsorption based on functional groups composed of C and O. The cells preprotected by ZSP can resist heavy metal ions. The above results show that ZSP can be used as a new macromolecule to bind heavy metal ions, which can broaden the research scope of polysaccharides in contaminated food systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused various clinical manifestations ranging from asymptomatic, minor flu-like symptoms to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pneumonia, and even death. Early restriction of viruses is of utmost importance in controlling the spread of COVID-19. The present study aimed to evaluate the role of a common herbal extract combination of pomegranate (dantabija), turmeric (haridra), and zinger (DHZ) in mild to moderate covid cases. Methods: A hundred covid-positive subjects of mild to moderate severity have been randomized to control and study groups. The study population has been given the fixed-dose combination of DHZ as an adjuvant to standard treatment. Data have been analyzed using standard statistical tools. Finding: DHZ as an adjuvant helped in turning 83.33% of patients negative in the home quarantine group whereas 40% of patients in the hospitalized group turned negative with the addition of DHZ in the standard management. The percent negativity was lower in patients who received only standard management. Out of all patients, who did not receive DHZ, only 38% of patients in home quarantine and 32% in hospitalized patients became negative for COVID-19. Patients who received DHZ also showed improvement in blood pressure levels, oxygen levels as well as improvement in all symptoms associated with COVID-19 infections. Interpretation: DHZ has shown a promising effect in mild to moderate cases of COVID-19 as an adjuvant to the standard therapy. The study results indicated that the combination probably produces its effect by its immunomodulatory action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zingiber zerumbet, also known as 'Lempoyang', possesses various phytomedicinal properties, such as anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, and antioxidant properties. Secondary metabolites possessing such properties i.e., zerumbone and α-humulene, are found dominantly in the plant rhizome. Synergistic effects of plant growth hormones and elicitors on in vitro α-humulene and zerumbone production, and biomass growth, in adventitious root culture (AdRC) of Z. zerumbet cultivated in a two-stage culture are reported. The culture was induced by supplementation of 1.0 mg/L NAA and 2.0 mg/L IBA (dark), and subsequently maintained in medium supplemented with 1 mg/L NAA and 3 mg/L BAP (16:08 light-dark cycle), yielded the production of zerumbone at 3440 ± 168 µg/g and α-humulene at 3759 ± 798 µg/g. Synergistic elicitation by 400 μM methyl jasmonate (MeJa) and 400 μM salicylic acid (SA) resulted in a 13-fold increase in zerumbone (43,000 ± 200 µg/g), while 400 μM MeJa and 600 μM SA produced a 4.3-fold increase in α-humulene (15,800 ± 5100 µg/g) compared to control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to having a long history of traditional uses as a functional food, Zingiber zerumbet was selected here to explore the inherent antioxidant and antineoplastic activities of methanolic extract of its rhizome (MEZZR) against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells. The rich polyphenol containing MEZZR showed a marked DPPH, ABTS, nitric oxide radicals and lipid peroxidation inhibition activity with an IC50 of 3.43 ± 1.25, 11.38 ± 1.39, 23.12 ± 3.39 and 16.47 ± 1.47 µg/ml, respectively, when compared to the standard catechin. In vivo, MEZZR significantly inhibited EAC cell growth, decreased body weight gain, increased life span and restored the altered hematological characteristics of EAC-bearing mice. Moreover, MEZZR induced nuclear condensation and fragmentation, which are notable features of apoptosis as observed by fluorescence microscopy after staining EAC cells of MEZZR-treated mice with Hoechst 33342. Additionally, in vitro, the cell growth inhibition caused by the MEZZR in MTT assay, was remarkably decreased in the presence of caspase-3, -8 and -9 inhibitors. This study thus suggests that MEZZR may possess promising antiproliferative efficacy against EAC cells by inducing cell apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zingiber ottensii (ZO) Valeton, a local plant in Northern Thailand, has been widely used in traditional medicine. Many studies using in vitro models reveal its pharmacological activities, including the anti-inflammatory activity of ZO essential oil, extracted from ZO rhizomes. However, the scientific report to confirm its anti-inflammatory activity using animal models is still lacking. The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity and explore the possible mechanisms of action of ZO essential oil in rats. The results revealed that ZO essential oil significantly reduced the ear edema formation induced by ethyl phenylpropiolate. Pre-treatment with ZO essential oil significantly reduced the carrageenan-induced hind paw edema and the severity of inflammation in paw tissue. In addition, pre-treatment with ZO essential oil exhibited decreased COX-2 and pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α expression in paw tissue, as well as PGE2 levels in serum. On this basis, our study suggests that ZO essential oil possesses anti-inflammatory activity in animal models. Its possible mechanisms of action may involve the inhibition of TNF-α expression as well as the inhibition of COX-2 and PGE2 production. These findings provide more crucial data of ZO essential oil that may lead to new natural anti-inflammatory product development in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic syndrome is a multifactorial disorder characterized by hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and hypertension risk factors. Moreover, metabolic syndrome is the most ordinary risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Numerous chemical drugs are being synthesized to heal metabolic risk factors. Still, due to their abundant side effects, herbal medicines have a vital role in the treatment of these abnormalities. Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Zingiberaceae) plant has been traditionally used in medicine to treat disorders, including CVD. The unique ginger properties are attributed to the presence of [6]-gingerol, [8]-gingerol, [10]-gingerol, and [6]-shogaol, which through different mechanisms can be beneficial in metabolic syndrome. Ginger has a beneficial role in metabolic syndrome treatment due to its hypotensive, anti-obesity, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic effects. It can significantly reduce atherosclerotic lesion areas, VLDL and LDL cholesterol levels, and elevate adenosine deaminase activity in platelet and lymphocytes. Also, it promotes ATP/ADP hydrolysis. In the current article review, the critical properties of ginger and its constituents' effects on the metabolic syndrome with a special focus on different molecular and cellular mechanisms have been discussed. This article also suggests that ginger may be introduced as a therapeutic or preventive agent against metabolic syndrome after randomized clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant of the genus Zingiber (Zingiberaceae) have primarily distributed in subtropical and tropical Asia, South America and Africa. The species of this genus have been widely used as food and in folk with a long history for treating various diseases. Reports related to the phytochemistry and phytochemistry of Zingiber species are numerous, but articles on the summary of the genus Zingiber remain scarce. This review aims at presenting comprehensive information about the genus Zingiber and providing a reference for the future application by systematically reviewing the literature from 1981 to 2020. Currently, a total of 447 phytochemical constituents have been isolated and identified from this genus, in which volatile oils, diarylheptanoids, gingerols, flavonoids and terpenoids are the major components. Gingerols, which are the main functional components, are the spicy and aromatic ingredients in the Zingiber species. Extracts and single compounds from Zingiber plants have been discovered to possess numerous biological functions, such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial, larvicidal, antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities. This review provides new insights into the ethnomedicine, phytochemistry and pharmacology of the genus Zingiber and brings to the forefront key findings on the functional components of this genus in food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, titled "Retraction: Antisecretory, Gastroprotective, Antioxidant and Anti-Helicobcter Pylori Activity of Zerumbone from Zingiber Zerumbet (L.) Smith," was retracted due to concerns about the reuse of previously published results in several figures. The figures in question were found to be similar to figures from other studies, despite representing different experimental conditions. The corresponding author provided replacement panels for some of the figures, but this did not resolve the concerns about the overall data-handling and reliability of the results. The retraction was agreed upon by several authors, while others did not respond or could not be reached. [Extracted from the article]

Antibiotic resistance rate is rising worldwide. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are potent for fighting antimicrobial resistance (AMR), independently or synergistically. The purpose of this study was to prepare AgNPs using wild ginger extracts and to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of these AgNPs against multidrug-resistant (MDR) Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, and Enterococcus faecalis. AgNPs were synthesized using wild ginger extracts at room temperature through different parameters for optimization, i.e., pH and variable molar concentration. Synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed by UV/visible spectroscopy and further characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis (EDXA), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Disc and agar well diffusion techniques were utilized to determine the in vitro antibacterial activity of plant extracts and AgNPs. The surface plasmon resonance peaks in absorption spectra for silver suspension showed the absorption maxima in the range of 400–420 nm. Functional biomolecules such as N–H, C–H, O–H, C–O, and C–O–C were present in Zingiber zerumbet (Z. zerumbet) (aqueous and organic extracts) responsible for the AgNP formation characterized by FTIR. The crystalline structure of ZZAE-AgCl-NPs and ZZEE-AgCl-NPs was displayed in the XRD analysis. SEM analysis revealed the surface morphology. The EDXA analysis also confirmed the element of silver. It was revealed that AgNPs were seemingly spherical in morphology. The biosynthesized AgNPs exhibited complete antibacterial activity against the tested MDR bacterial strains. This study indicates that AgNPs of wild ginger extracts exhibit potent antibacterial activity against MDR bacterial strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf epidermal characteristics are important for phylogenetic and taxonomic studies of many plants, but there is currently insufficient such data for this application in Zingiber species. Therefore, the leaf epidermal micromorphology of 22 species in three sections of Zingiber was investigated by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Differences between various taxonomic groups of Zingiberaceae were also compared to assess their phylogenetic and taxonomic significance. As in other genera of Zingiberaceae, the epidermal cells in both the adaxial and abaxial epidermis of Zingiber species were found to be hexagonal or polygonal, with non-sinuous anticlinal walls that are arranged parallel to leaf veins. Tetracytic stomata are mostly randomly distributed in the intercostal regions of both surfaces and are more common on the abaxial surface. The stomatal density of the species in sect. Pleuranthesis is significantly lower than that in sects. Zingiber and Cryptanthium. There are two types of trichome in Zingiber: so-called "delicate" trichomes are present in most species, while "stout" trichomes with a swollen base are only found in Z. corallinum and Z. montanum. Oil cells occur in both epidermal layers of some species in sects. Zingiber and Cryptanthium, but only in the abaxial epidermis of Z. ellipticum in sect. Pleuranthesis. Crystals are found in the abaxial epidermis only in all species, but are present in both epidermal layers of Z. corallinum and Z. montanum. Although the epidermal morphology is similar in most Zingiber species, stomatal density, type of trichome and distribution of oil cells and crystals offer valuable information for the systematic and taxonomic studies in this genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zingiber ottensii, is widely used in Asian traditional remedies for the treatment of many diseases. The present study explores anticancer activity of Z. ottensii essential oil (ZOEO) and its nanoformulations. ZOEO obtained from hydrodistillation of Z. ottensii fresh rhizomes was analysis using gas chromatography mass spectroscopy. Zerumbone (25.21%) was the major compound of ZOEO followed by sabinene (23.35%) and terpene-4-ol (15.97%). Four types of ZOEO loaded nanoformulations; nanoemulsion, microemulsion, nanoemulgels, and microemulgel, were developed. The average droplet size of the nanoemulsion and microemulsion was significantly smaller than that of the nanoemulgel and microemulgel. Comparison with other essential oils of plants of the same family on anticancer activity against A549, MCF-7, HeLa, and K562, ZOEO showed the highest cytotoxicity with IC50 of 43.37±6.69, 9.77±1.61, 23.25±7.73, and 60.49±9.41 μg/mL, respectively. Investigation using flow cytometry showed that ZOEO significantly increased the sub-G1 populations (cell death) in cell cycle analysis and induced cell apoptosis by apoptotic analysis. The developed nanoformulations significantly enhanced cytotoxicity of ZOEO, particularly against MCF-7 with the IC50 of 3.08±2.58, 0.74±0.45, 2.31±0.91, and 6.45±5.84 μg/mL, respectively. Among the four nanoformulations developed in the present study, nanoemulsion and microemulsion were superior to nanoemulgel and microemulgel in delivering ZOEO into cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fresh rhizome extracts of four elite Zingiber species, viz., Zingiber kangleipakense, Zingiber montanum, Zingiber officinale, and Zingiber zerumbet, prepared in 60% aqueous ethanol/60% aqueous methanol solutions were used for assessing their comparative free radical scavenging and radioprotective properties. Various methods, such as ferric ion reducing power assay, DPPH ion scavenging assay, nitric oxide scavenging assay, metal chelating assay, thiyl/sulfur free radical reactivity assay, and hydroxyl ion scavenging assay, were employed for radical scavenging capabilities. Bio-active principles, such as total phenolic, flavonoid, and ascorbic acid contents, were also assessed. Z. officinale showed the highest TPC, TFC, and ascorbic acid content of 650 mg GAE/100 g, 889 mg QE/100 g, and 3.19 mg/100 g, respectively, as well as the greatest efficacy in ferric ion reducing and DPPH scavenging ability having lowest IC50 value of 0.22 mg/mL. Z. montanum showed the lowest IC50 value of 0.91 mg/mL in NO scavenging assay and also exhibited the highest curcumin protection in thiyl free radical scavenging assay. Z. kangleipakense showed the lowest IC50 value of 0.24 mg/mL and 0.25 mg/mL in metal ion chelating assay and hydroxyl radical assay, respectively. 60% aqueous ethanol extracts of Z. officinale and Z. kangleipakense were used for radioprotective assays both for in vitro and in vivo using plasmid pBR322 DNA and bone marrow cells of albino rats, respectively, based on their significant free radical scavenging properties. At the same concentration of 0.25 mg/mL, Z. officinale and Z. kangleipakense showed 71.50% and 56.54% protection, respectively, of DNA from exposure to 6 Gy gamma radiation. Also, Z. officinale and Z. kangleipakense exhibited 51.16% and 38.96% protection from radiation-induced chromosomal damages in rats, respectively, when exposed to 2 Gy. Reduction in the DNA open circular form as well as the chromosomal aberrations in treatments with plant extracts compared to the controls confirmed the radioprotective potentials of the extracts. The results showed that the extracts possessed potential antioxidant compounds having capacities to scavenge radiation-induced free radical species. The accessibility of the extracts in radiation countermeasures can provide immense nutraceutical potentials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Propionibacterium acnes is a commensal bacteria that play a role in developing acne vulgaris on the skin. Antibacterial activity assay in the last decades have shown that Propionibacterium acnes is resistant to several antibiotics. Potential zingiber genera such as Z. officinale, Z. montanum, and Z. zerumbet have potential as antibacterial. Objective: This study aims to compare the antibacterial activity of Z. officinale, Z. montanum and Z. zerumbet against Propionibacterium acnes, the active fraction, and the components of the active fraction of the plant. Materials and Methods: Antibacterial activity test using agar diffusion method, extracts with high antibacterial activity were partitioned with water: n-hexane, n-hexane: methanol, water: ethyl acetate. The fraction was tested for antibacterial activity against P. acnes. The active fraction obtained was identified for its phytochemical content using TLC and GC-MS methods. Results: The results of the antibacterial activity test of Z. officinale extract had a larger inhibition zone. The test results of the active fraction Z. officinale had a higher activity than the extract. The results of screening using the GC-MS method obtained that the main components identified from Z. officinale were volatile oil components (a-curcumene, a-zingiberene and zingerone) and oleoresin (6-shogaol). Conclusion: Extracts of Z. officinale, Z. montanum and Z. zerumbet had antibacterial activity against P. acnes. The highest antibacterial activity in Z. officinale both extract and ethyl acetate fraction which is known to contain terpenoids and oleoresin compounds (6-shogaol). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, control (0), 50, 100, 200, 400, 800 and 1000 mg L-1 ginger essential oil (GEO) (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) was added to rumen liquid (RL). Then, the effects of the GEO added to the RL In vitro gas production, organic matter digestibility (OMD), metabolisable energy (ME), rumen fermentation parameters and methane (CH4) production were examined on these samples. It was determined that the addition of the GEO to RL decreased the in vitro gas production of Trifolium pratense hay (TPH), the OMD and ME contents, total volatile fatty acids (TVFA), acetic acid (AA), propionic acid (PA), butyric acid (BA) and other volatile fatty acids (OVFA) (P<0.05). Moreover, it was determined that while the productions of carbon dioxide (CO2), CH4 and ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) decreased, the ratios of the rumen pH and AA/PA increased (P<0.05) depending on the increase in the dose of GEO. In conclusion, it was determined that the GEO dose which had the highest negative effect on the in vitro gas production, the rumen fermentation, the nutrient digestibility, the CH4 and the CO2 production was 1000 mg L-1. It was concluded that since high doses of GEO affect rumen fermentation and digestion of feeds negatively, it would be appropriate to use 200 mg L-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zingiber magang and Z. tamii, two new species of Zingiber sect. Cryptanthium (Zingiberaceae) from central Vietnam are described and illustrated. Information on their distribution, ecology, phenology, uses and vernacular names are provided. A preliminary IUCN conservation assessment of each of these species is proposed. A key to species of Zingiber sect. Cryptanthium in Vietnam is also given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Polysaccharides from waste Zingiber mioga leaves (PWZMLs) was first exploited. • Ultrasonic-microwave-assisted extraction was an efficient method to extract PWZMLs. • Ultrasound contributed more to the yield of PWZMLs than microwave. • PWZMLs exerted pronounced antioxidant and anticoagulant activities. • The rich galacturonic acid and galactose could mainly contribute to the bioactivities. Zingiber mioga is a highly economic crop that is used to produce vegetables, spices and herbal pharmaceuticals. Its edible flower bud contributes most to the economic value, but the big leaves were discarded as agricultural waste, which urgently needs to be exploited. In this work, polysaccharides from waste Z. mioga leaves (PWZMLs) were extracted using ultrasonic-microwave-assisted extraction (UMAE). After purification and characterization, the antioxidation and anticoagulation of PWZMLs were evaluated to appraise the potential in cardiovascular protection. Under the liquid–solid ratio of 26: 1 mL/g, after ultrasonication at 495 W for 10 min, followed by microwaving at 490 W for 5 min, the yield of PWZMLs achieved to 6.22 ± 0.14 %, notably higher (P < 0.01) than other methods, and ultrasound contributed more to the yield than microwave. Various analyses confirmed that PWZMLs were negatively charged polysaccharides with galacturonic acid the dominant uronic acid. PWZMLs exerted excellent antioxidant capacity, especially for scavenging 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical. PWZMLs also elicited promising anticoagulant property, particularly for prolonging activated partial thromboplastin time and lowering fibrinogen, which were almost equivalent to heparin at the same concentration. PWZMLs contained two polysaccharide fractions (199.53 and 275.42 kDa) that could synergistically contribute to the pronounced antioxidant and anticoagulant activities. The PWZMLs extracted with optimized UMAE have great potential in cardiovascular protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species of Zingiber viz. Z. cornigrum and Z. campanulatum from Arunachal Pradesh, North-East India are described. In addition to morphology, data from anatomy, pollen morphology and molecular biology are also used. A key to the Zingiber Sect. Cryptanthium from Northeastern India is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

3Comparison of the simple sequence repeats (SSRs) among fourteen Zingiber species. a The number of different SSR types. b The frequency of the identified SSRs in different repeat class types The original article [[1]] has been updated. Reference 1 Jiang D, Cai X, Gong M. Complete chloroplast genomes provide insights into evolution and phylogeny of Zingiber (Zingiberaceae). Correction: Complete chloroplast genomes provide insights into evolution and phylogeny of Zingiber (Zingiberaceae). [Extracted from the article]

The effects of a mixture of Hippophae rhamnoides (HR) and Zingiber mioga (ZM) extract (ZH) on intracellular lipid accumulation were investigated in vitro and the anti-obesity effects of ZH evaluated in mice with high-fat diet-induced obesity. The results revealed that ZH inhibited lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and Huh-7 cells by suppressing adipogenic and lipogenic gene and protein expression. To evaluate the anti-obesity effects of ZH, mice fed a high-fat diet were orally administered low and high doses of ZH (low, ZM 400 mg/kg + HR 100 mg/kg; high, ZM 800 mg/kg + HR 200 mg/kg) for 9 weeks. ZH significantly reduced body weight gain and adipose tissue accumulation with no reduction in food intake when compared to control treatment. Furthermore, ZH reduced hepatic triglyceride and total cholesterol levels, as well as adipose cell size, in the liver and epididymal fat pads, respectively, through inhibition of adipogenesis and lipogenesis-related gene expression. These results suggested that ZH inhibits lipid accumulation, thereby indicating its potential for use as a new therapeutic strategy for obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eleven fungal endophytes were isolated from the plant parts of Z. nimmonii (J. Graham) Dalzell, an endemic species of the Western Ghats, India, a biodiversity hotspot area. The endophytic isolates were characterized by the sequencing of the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) regions and designated as strains by depositing ITS sequences in the Gen Bank sequence database. All the strains were cultured in Potato Dextrose broth (PDB, 500 mL) contained in Erlenmeyer flasks to obtain the secondary metabolites. The culture filtrate was extracted with ethyl-acetate (EA) three times and concentrated by flash evaporation to obtain EA crude dry extract. The strains were evaluated for the antibacterial potentials against six pathogenic bacterial strains viz., Bacillus subtilis (MTCC 121), Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 7443) Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC 7093), Escherichia coli (MTCC 729), Enterobacter aerogenes (MTCC 111) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (MTCC 661). Nine endophytic fungal extracts except Alternaria consortiale and Hypocrea lixi showed inhibitory activities against at least two of the six test bacterial strains. Bipolaris specifera (KM114290) exhibited the highest inhibition zones ranging from 15.1 ± 0.3 to 26.7 ± 1.1 mm (diameter), against all six test bacteria in the agar disk diffusion assay, and with Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC's) of 0.04–0.14 mg/mL, followed by Aspergillus terreus. B. specifera extract was therefore selected and characterized for the identification of antibacterial compounds by chromatographic techniques. Seven antibacterial compounds viz., (1) Bicyclo[3.2.0]heptan-2-one, 6-hydroxy-5-methyl-6-vinyl; (2) Adipic acid divinyl ester; (3) 1,4-Naphthoquinone, 6-acetyl-2,5-dihydroxy; (4) Decanedioic acid, 3,7-dimethyl ester; (5) (Z)-4-Hexenoic acid 2-acetyl-2-methyl-ethyl ester and (6) Butanoic acid 2-acetyl-3-methyl-methyl ester and (7) Caffeic acid, were identified through liquid and gas chromatography. These compounds are mainly volatile esters of fatty acids, phenolics and adipic acid found rare in nature. This study envisages the possible drug discovery using endophytes from traditional and endemic medicinal species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eleven fungal endophytes were isolated from the plant parts of Z. nimmonii (J. Graham) Dalzell, an endemic species of the Western Ghats, India, a biodiversity hotspot area. The endophytic isolates were characterized by the sequencing of the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) regions and designated as strains by depositing ITS sequences in the Gen Bank sequence database. All the strains were cultured in Potato Dextrose broth (PDB, 500 mL) contained in Erlenmeyer flasks to obtain the secondary metabolites. The culture filtrate was extracted with ethyl-acetate (EA) three times and concentrated by flash evaporation to obtain EA crude dry extract. The strains were evaluated for the antibacterial potentials against six pathogenic bacterial strains viz., Bacillus subtilis (MTCC 121), Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 7443) Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC 7093), Escherichia coli (MTCC 729), Enterobacter aerogenes (MTCC 111) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (MTCC 661). Nine endophytic fungal extracts except Alternaria consortiale and Hypocrea lixi showed inhibitory activities against at least two of the six test bacterial strains. Bipolaris specifera (KM114290) exhibited the highest inhibition zones ranging from 15.1 ± 0.3 to 26.7 ± 1.1 mm (diameter), against all six test bacteria in the agar disk diffusion assay, and with Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC's) of 0.04–0.14 mg/mL, followed by Aspergillus terreus. B. specifera extract was therefore selected and characterized for the identification of antibacterial compounds by chromatographic techniques. Seven antibacterial compounds viz., (1) Bicyclo[3.2.0]heptan-2-one, 6-hydroxy-5-methyl-6-vinyl; (2) Adipic acid divinyl ester; (3) 1,4-Naphthoquinone, 6-acetyl-2,5-dihydroxy; (4) Decanedioic acid, 3,7-dimethyl ester; (5) (Z)-4-Hexenoic acid 2-acetyl-2-methyl-ethyl ester and (6) Butanoic acid 2-acetyl-3-methyl-methyl ester and (7) Caffeic acid, were identified through liquid and gas chromatography. These compounds are mainly volatile esters of fatty acids, phenolics and adipic acid found rare in nature. This study envisages the possible drug discovery using endophytes from traditional and endemic medicinal species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zingiberaceae is a family of plant species that has medicinal usefulness and is widely used by Batak Toba ethnic as traditional medicine. Therefore, this research aims to find out the species of Zingiberaceae that have been used as traditional herbal medicine the Batak Toba ethnic. This research is a qualitative-descriptive study through an emic and ethic approach. The method used is semi-structural and open-ended interviews. The results showed nine species of the Zingiberaceae used in traditional medicine by Batak Toba; there are as follow: Zingiber officinale, Zingiber purpureum, Zingiber americanus, Curcuma domestica, Curcuma xanthorhiza, Alpinia galanga, Kaempferia galanga, Etlingera elatior, and Amomum compactum. The plant parts that are used are stems, fruits, and rhizomes. The utilization of Zingiberaceae based on percentage is divided into three groups: 60% for medical treatment, 25% for health-cares, and 15% for health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate chemical composition and cytotoxic activities of essential oils from Zingiber striolatum Diels flowers, leaves and stems. 73, 68 and 66 compounds representing 97.0%, 94.8% and 93.7% of flowers, leaves and stems essential oils were identified using GC-FID and GC-MS, respectively. The main constituents of the flowers oil were ß-phellandrene (28.5%), a-humulene (14.7%), ß-pinene (8.2%), ß-elemene (5.5%), humulene oxide II (3.5%), cryptone (3.3%) and tricosane (3.2%). The predominant components in the leaves oil were hexahydrofarnesyl acetone (24.7%), a-humulene (12.2%), phytol (11.9%), humulene oxide II (6.3%), ß-pinene (4.3%), sandaracopimaradiene (3.1%) and ß-elemene (3.0%). The stems oil contained mainly a-humulene (15.6%), humulene oxide II (7.9%), hexahydrofarnesyl acetone (7.4%), phytol (7.2%), humulene oxide I (4.1%), ß-elemene (3.8%) and 4-terpineol (3.2%). The cytotoxic activity against human leukemic (K562), prostatic carcinoma (PC-3) and lung cancer (A549) cell lines of essential oils was assessed using MTT assay. The essential oils of flowers, leaves and stems exhibited significant cytotoxicity against K562 (IC50: 12.94-37.89 µg/mL), PC-3 (IC50: 69.06-82.56 µg/mL) and A549 (IC50: 45.73-66.12 µg/mL) cell lines. This is the first report on the chemical constituents and cytotoxic activities of Z. striolatum flowers, leaves and stems essential oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we describe a new species, Zingiber chengii Y.H. Tseng, C.M. Wang & Y.C. Lin, discovered on a rock cliff of Youluo riverside in northern Taiwan. This species is easily distinguished from other known congeners by its grass-like leaves, spikes composed of a few sterile bracts, and seeds one-third enveloped by the aril. Color illustrations, line drawings, and a key to species of Zingiber in Taiwan are provided as well as comparative morphology in relation to its allied species, geographical distribution, and conservation status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zingiber natmataungense S.S.Zhou & R.Li (Zingiberaceae), a new species from Natma Taung National Park, Chin State, Myanmar, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to Z. yunnanense, but differs by: leaf blade abaxially light green, glabrous, ligule sparsely pubescent, ca. 2-3 mm, bracts glabrous; calyx white 20-21 x 3.2-3.5 mm, glabrous, apex obviously 3-toothed; corolla tube white, ca. 3.9-4.1 cm, labellum lateral lobes, ca. 1.5-1.7 x 0.6-0.7 cm; stamen with sparse pubescent, filament white, glabrous, 1-2 mm; anther connective appendage yellowish proximally, purplish distally; ovary white, sparsely white pubescent, epigynous glands, ca. 6-7 mm long, tapered, apex whorled, yellow. This new species is also similar to Z. teres, but has a different flower colour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Zingiber montanum (J.König) Link ex Dietr. (Phlai) rhizome has been used for the treatment of muscular and joint pain. An essential oil from this has been developed into various dosage forms, but there are no studies on the traditional Phlai hot oil extract, which is widely used among Thai traditional practitioners. Commonly a high temperature has been suggested for extraction but some traditional doctors claimed the efficacy of the low temperature extract (LTE, 70-90°C). The objectives of this study were to determine the effect of temperature on the anti-inflammatory activity and investigate the minimum concentration of the most potent extract. The anti-inflammatory activity was determined using the ear-edema model. Phlai oil extracts were prepared traditionally by deep frying the sliced rhizome in hot vegetable oil using three different temperatures. The density and viscosity of all the extracts were recorded. The extract using a high temperature (HTE, 240-260°C) showed the significantly highest anti-inflammation activity (P < 0.05). The minimum concentration that presented a reduction in ear edema was 25% of HTE in coconut oil (P < 0.05). A thin layer chromatogram of the extracts demonstrated that some compounds in the volatile oil remained in the extracts that were exposed to a low temperature, but those were not found in the medium temperature extract (MTE, 170-190°C) and HTE. All extracts contained (E)-4-(3',4'-dimethoxyphenyl)but-3-en-2-ol (compound-D). Other phenylbutanoids and cassumunoids in the HTE may be responsible for anti-inflammation and should be revealed, while quality control should be studied further. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis (OA) as the most frequent form of knee arthritis is one of the most annoying complications amongst old peoples. There are different pharmacological and non-pharmacological remedies which could be applied for treatment of knee OA. It's while, significant side effects mostly in patients who are older are the dangerous limiting factors. Integrative, supplementary, traditional remedies have been applied from long time ago in treatment of such chronic diseases like OA. Various topical and oral remedies have been presented in treatment of OA worldwide. In spite of the fact there are multiple remedies for reduction symptoms of patients who suffer from disorders and related inabilities which could enhance their life quality. Remedies which have been applied for a long time for treatment of OA have newly discovered to induce injury to some patients. On the other side, additional knowledge about alternative and supplementary remedies is a main way for enhancing health of patients who suffer from OA disorders. Zingiber zerumbet (Z. zerumbeton) is a kind of herb of the ginger family and is a natural compound with various biomedical characteristics like anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effect. However, Z. zerumbet could be applied for reduction of OA symptoms because of its circulatory stimulant and anti-inflammatory effects. Anyway, up to now there is not any methodical literature review for evaluating the Z. zerumbet clinical effectiveness productiveness in treatment of OA. The main aim of the current study is to review scientific resources around therapeutic effectiveness of Zingiber zerumbet in treatment of adverse symptoms of OA disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) can infect both the upper and lower respiratory tracts related diseases and a common cause of community-acquired pneumonia, mostly in young children and adolescents. Zingiber zerumbet (L.) belongs to the family of Zingiberaceae and it is a perennial and aromatic plant that cultivates in subtropical and tropical countries. This plant is traditionally found throughout Southeast Asia and the Pacific region, where it is commonly used in foods, and beverages purposes. Zingiber zerumbet is a valuable foundation of diverse classes of bioactive major compounds that fit to a varied diversity of chemical metabolites, including polyphenols, alkaloids and terpenes. The numerous studies of Z. zerumbet have shown the enormous pharmacological potential of this plant and its derived bioactive compounds in the treatment of various immune-related diseases like inflammation and other chronic diseases. Based on the previous scientific reports, there are no scientific investigations that claim the antipneumonial activity of the Z. zerumbet based silver nanoparticle. Therefore, the aim of the present study was designed and evaluated the anti-pneumonial potential of biosynthesized with Z. zerumbet based silver nanoparticles in mycoplasmal pneumonia in experimental rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The species of Zingiberales are sources of globally important spices and ornamental plants, and have long been used in Asian traditional medicine, cuisine and as herbs. Some species have high ornamental value due to their attractive foliage or flowers, including Zingiber spectabile Griff. Hybridization has been the major source of genetic variation in flower and ornamental breeding and understanding the flowering season and peaks of flowering is important for flower growers. Stigma receptivity, or the effective pollination period, is one of the important factors determining successful fertilization and has been rarely studied in Zingiberaceae. The objectives of this study were to examine the Z. spectabile reproductive biology, to investigate stigma receptivity under several flowering developmental stages, and their reproductive success. The inflorescence development of Z. spectabile from the start of the bracts opening to fully open bracts took 13-17 weeks. The ideal time for artificial pollination was between 11:00-13:00 hours, and the anthers dehisced prior to stigma receptivity. Our study demonstrates that Z. spectabile is self-compatible and crosspollination does not increase fruit set and seed set. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is aimed at investigating the insecticidal activity of two indigenous plants (Zingiber officinales and Plumbago zeylanica) against Sitophilus zeamais (Motschulsky, 1985) of stored maize. The efficacy and toxicity of Z. officinales and P. zeylanica are studied as protectants of stored maize grains against damage by the maize weevil S. zeamais. The stock culture of S. zeamais used for this study was taken from infested maize obtained from the Postgraduate Research Laboratory, Department of Biology, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria. The study was conducted under laboratory conditions of 28±2oC ambient temperature and 75±5% relative humidity. The ethanolic extract was prepared by weighing 100g of the pulverized powder in 100 ml of absolute ethanol, which was then allowed to stand for seventy-two hours, and later sieved using muslin cloth. The contact effect of plant powders of adult mortality of S. zeamais and contact effect of plant powders on adult emergence and reduction of S. zeamais were carried out by weighing twenty grams of the maize grains into a plastic container with 12.50 cm diameter and 13.50 cm depth. Separate portions of the pulverized powder of Z. officinales and P. zeylanica at 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5g were thoroughly mixed with the grains using the glass rod inside the plastic container. The results obtained from this study reveal that the varying concentrations of the two plant powders Z. officinales and P. zeylanica had significant effects on the mortality of adult S. zeamais. However, their effectiveness was dependent on concentration and exposure periods. Since mortality increased as the exposure periods increased, it was clear that the toxic components of Z. officinales and P. zeylanica powders exhibited some level of persistence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ginger oleoresin (GO) as natural compounds becoming widely used to edible film, and coating for extending shelf life product. The objective of this study was to investigate the performance oleoresin and accept of consumer sensory properties from ginger emprit. Preliminary UHPLC-MS assay analysis showed that most components of oleoresin (24.7%) geranial and then gingerdione (10.2%). The methods were active concentration 1%, 1.5% and 2% (wt) GO applied onto edible coating toward beef meatballs. The resulting minimum inhibitory showed GO 1.5% was the optimum concentration against Gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus) 4.3 mm and Gramnegative bacteria (Salmonella) 0.5 mm. During the storage period, minimum meatballs quality was determined based on microbiological (Total Plate Count/TPC) and pH. Meatballs with edible containing GO 1.5% preserve the best quality with resulted in 1.83 log reduction of TPC and average pH value at 5.7. On sensory properties, the attribute was colour, taste, flavour intensity, juiciness, and hardness. Only 2% GO concentration has a negative effect on colour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species delimitation may be difficult for recently divergent species, particularly those with few distinguishable morphological characteristics. Zingiber kawagoii and Z. shuanglongensis are two recently divergent species endemic to Taiwan whose extremely similar vegetative characteristics hinder their distinction during non-flowering seasons. Given their recent divergence, the speciation process and introgressions between these two gingers warrant exploration. However, such studies are hampered by the absence of appropriate molecular markers. To solve this dilemma, we developed 20 transferable expressed sequence tag-simple sequence repeat loci (EST-SSR). Seven highly differentiated loci were further identified for rapid species delimitation. A preliminary test using discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC) validated the effective discrimination of these EST-SSR loci, while Bayesian clustering analysis (BCA) revealed obvious introgression events between species, particularly on positive-outlier loci. These results imply adaptive introgressions between these species. However, more sampling and further experiments are necessary to validate this inference and resolve questions regarding the introgression and speciation mechanisms. The development of genetic markers in this study provides appropriate experimental conditions and a basis for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Zingiberaceae is one of the significant components of the herbaceous ground flora of Southeast Asia tropical forests. This family includes some medicinally important species, in particular the members of genera of Alpinia, Curcuma, Etlingera and Zingiber (Van Balgooy, 2001). Objective: to identify the traditional usages and evaluate for phytochemical screening of selected Zingiberaceae from Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. Material and Methods: Zingiberaceae samples were collected from the Lore Lindu National Park (LLNP), Central Sulawesi Indonesia and its surroundings and evaluated for their phytochemical contents by using TLC method with particular spraying reagents. Results: the plants were used by the local ethnics for different daily and medicinal purposes. All part of each selected species of Zingiberaceae contain flavonoid, tannins, saponins, triterpenoid and alkaloid although steroids were only found in the leaves of Etlingera flexuosa, Curcuma mangga and Alpinia galanga. Alkaloids were only found in the rhyzome of Etlingera flexuosa, Curcuma aerugynosa, Zingiber montanum. Besides it was also detected in leaves of both Alpinia rubricaulis and Etlingera acanthoides. Additionally, Alkaloids were also discovered in the stem of Ammomum aculeata, Alpinia galanga and Curcuma mangga. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcription factors (TFs) fine-tune the host defense transcriptome in response to pathogen invasions. No information is available on Zingiber zerumbet (Zz) TFs involved in defense response against Pythium myriotylum. Here, we provide a global identification, characterization, and temporal expression profiling of Zz TFs following an incompatible interaction with P. myriotylum using a transcriptome sequencing approach. We identified a total of 903 TFs belonging to 96 families based on their conserved domains. Evolutionary analysis clustered the Zz TFs according to their phylogenetic affinity, providing glimpses of their functional diversities. High throughput expression array analysis highlighted a complex interplay between activating and repressing transcription factors in fine-tuning Zz defense response against P. myriotylum. The high differential modulation of TFs involved in cell wall fortification, lignin biosynthesis, and SA/JA hormone crosstalk allows us to envisage that this mechanism plays a central role in restricting P. myriotylum proliferation in Zz. This study lays a solid foundation and provides valuable resources for the investigation of the evolutionary history and biological functions of Zz TF genes involved in defense response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ginger, the rhizome of Zingiber officinale, which is used as a spice globally has a long history of medicinal use that stimulates investigators to assess its potential roles as an adjuvant therapy or alternative medicine in a range of diseases. Anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, and antiulcer effects of ginger have been proven in many scientific studies, and some of the ancient applications of ginger as a home remedy has been confirmed in human. In this review, we summarized the current evidence on the effects of ginger consumption on gastrointestinal disorders based on clinical trials. Our data indicate that divided lower daily dosage of 1500 mg ginger is beneficial for nausea relief. Because of limited number of studies on some other gastrointestinal disorders, the results may not be as much powered as to find significant results. Therefore, more extensive and well‐controlled human studies of ginger or its standard extracts are required to demonstrate its efficacy as a gastroprotective agent. Dose‐finding studies should be undertaken to accurately determine the effective dose and preparation of ginger in further clinical trials protocol. This review shows that ginger is a useful supplement for many gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating. It can be used at 1000 mg/day without any side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]