Phytochemical Analysis and Anti-cryptosporidial Effects of Zingiber officinale Extracts: In-vivo and In-Silco Studies

Document Type : New and original researches in the field of Microbiology.

Authors

1 Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medical Sciences and Technology, Khartoum, 11111, Sudan.

2 Medicinal Chemistry Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Kornaish El Nile, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba (P.O. 30), Giza 12411, Egypt

3 Parasitology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Kornaish El Nile, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba (P.O. 30), Giza 12411, Egypt

4 Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Kornaish El Nile, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba (P.O. 30), Giza 12411, Egypt

Abstract

Background: The intracellular protozoan Cryptosporidium species is a major cause of waterborne disease worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for new treatments. Objective: This study evaluates the therapeutic potential of Zingiber officinale (Z. officinale/ginger) against Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum), analyzing its antioxidant properties, phenolic content, and anti-protozoal effects. Methodology: Methanol extraction of air-dried Z. officinale rhizomes was followed by organic solvent fractionation. Total phenolic content was assessed with Folin-Ciocalteu’s assay, and antioxidant activity was measured by the phosphomolybdenum method. An in vivo study on dexamethasone-immunosuppressed mice included seven groups: uninfected control, infected model, and five infected groups treated with different extracts (methanol, ethyl acetate, aqueous, petroleum ether) or nitazoxanide as a reference drug. Results: The most effective extract regarding oocyst reduction was methanol (89%). Molecular docking revealed robust binding to a target protein in C. parvum, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry allowed for the identification of important active chemicals. The highest levels of antioxidant activity and phenolic content were found in the ethyl acetate fraction. Conclusion: The ethyl acetate fraction and methanol extract of Z. officinale exhibited strong antioxidant properties and high phenolic content. Methanol extract demonstrated significant anti-cryptosporidial effects, reducing oocyst shedding, suggesting it as a promising natural therapeutic option. By linking ginger's chemical makeup to its biological activity using molecular docking, the study shed light on how ginger works against C. parvum opening the door for further therapeutic advancement.

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