Inhibition of epidermal growth factor-induced cell transformation and activator protein 1 activation by [6]-gingerol

Many spices, including plants of the ginger family, possess anticarcinogeni c activity. However, the molecular mechanisms by which they exert their ant itumorigenic effects are unknown. Activator protein 1 (AP-1) has a critical role in tumor promotion, and blocking of tumor promoter-induced activation of AP-1 inhibits neoplastic transformation. Epidermal growth factor induce s cell transformation and AP-1 activity. The purpose of this study was to i nvestigate the effect of two structurally related compounds of the ginger f amily, [6]-gingerol and [6]-paradol, on EGF-induced cell transformation and AP-1 activation. Our results provide the first evidence that both block EG F-induced cell transformation but act by different mechanisms.