Biological mechanisms, pharmacological and pathological activities, and quality optimization of gingerols and shogaols

Ginger is well known. Gingerols and shogaols are one of the most popular and valuable active components in ginger. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and other bioactive mechanisms have recently been widely studied and demonstrated. Although numerous articles have reviewed biological mechanisms of gingerols and shogaols respectively, there is a lack of perspective to integrate and contrast the biological activity mechanisms of gingerols and shogaols. Thus, starting from the perspective of signaling pathways and related metabolites, this paper systematically summarized the different bioactive mechanisms, pharmacological and pathological significance of gingerols and shogaols. Based on these findings, the quality optimization strategy was suggested, significance include the following two aspects. To provide a theoretical basis and direction for the further study of biological mechanisms and clinical research. To provide a reference for people and patients to reasonably use the ginger as well as realizing the maximization of the efficacy of the ginger. • The bioactive mechanisms of gingerols and shogaols were reviewed in detail. • The differences between gingerols and shogaols were elucidated. • New perspectives on signaling pathways and related metabolites have been applied. • Methods for maximizing biological activity were summarized and prospected.