The role of mitochondria-mediated intrinsic death pathway in gingerdione derivative I6-induced neuronal apoptosis

► Gingerdione, an active component from ginger, and its derivative I6 have been demonstrated to inhibit HL-60 cell growth. ► Neuronal death induced by I6 displayed apoptotic characteristics. ► I6-induced reduction of mitochondrial viability and neuronal apoptosis were inhibited by vitamin E. ► I6 induces neuronal death by promoting intracellular ROS production. ► The ROS results in cytochrome c release and activation of mitochondria-mediated intrinsic death pathway.