Curcumin in cancer chemoprevention: molecular targets, pharmacokinetics, bioavailability, and clinical trials

Immunomodulatory Antibacterial Hydrogel for Wound Infection Management

Background

Wound healing has always been a focal point in clinical work. Bacterial infections and immune microenvironment disorders can both hinder normal wound healing. Current wound dressings only serve a covering function. Developing wound dressings with antibacterial and immunomodulatory functions is crucial for aiding wound healing. To address this issue, we have developed a hydrogel with antibacterial and immunomodulatory functions for managing infected wounds.

Methods

The present study describes a photo-crosslinked antibacterial hydrogel composed of curcumin, silver nanoparticles-loaded reduced graphene oxide, and silk fibroin methacryloyl for the treatment of infected wounds. The study assessed its antibacterial properties and its capacity to induce macrophage M2 polarization through in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Results

The hydrogel demonstrates robust antibacterial properties and enhances macrophage M2 polarization in both in vitro and in vivo settings. Moreover, it accelerates the healing of infected wounds in vivo by stimulating collagen deposition and angiogenesis.

Conclusion

Overall, this hydrogel shows great potential in managing wound infections.

Mechanism and therapeutic potential of traditional Chinese medicine extracts in sepsis

Sepsis is a complex syndrome characterized by multi-organ dysfunction, due to the presence of harmful microorganisms in blood which could cause mortality. Complications associated with sepsis involve multiple organ dysfunction. The pathogenesis of sepsis remains intricate, with limited treatment options and high mortality rates. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has consistently demonstrated to have a potential on various disease management. Its complements include reduction of oxidative stress, inhibiting inflammatory pathways, regulating immune responses, and improving microcirculation. Traditional Chinese medicine can mitigate or even treat sepsis in a human system. This review examines progress on the use of TCM extracts for treating sepsis through different pharmacological action and its mechanisms. The potential targets of TCM extracts and active ingredients for the treatment of sepsis and its complications have been elucidated through molecular biology research, network pharmacology prediction, molecular docking analysis, and visualization analysis. Our aim is to provide a theoretical basis and empirical support for utilizing TCM in the treatment of sepsis and its complications while also serving as a reference for future research and development of sepsis drugs.

The effects of curcumin supplementation on biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial function: A meta-analysis of meta-analyses

Numerous interventional studies have revealed the beneficial impact of curcumin supplementation on inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial function biomarkers, but the findings are still inconsistent. Thus, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of curcumin supplementation on inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial function biomarkers. A meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials was performed by searching PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science up to March 31, 2024. Pooled estimates of 21 meta-analyses revealed that curcumin significantly reduced CRP (weighted mean difference (WMD) = -0.87; 95 % CI: - 1.14, - 0.59, P< 0.001), tumor-necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) (WMD = -2.72; 95 % CI: -4.05, -1.38; P< 0.001), interleukin-6 (IL-6) (WMD = -0.97, 95 % CI: -1.40, -0.54; P< 0.001), malondialdehyde (MDA) (Effect size (ES) = -0.81; 95 % CI: -1.39, -0.23, P = 0.006) and pulse wave velocity (PWV) (WMD = -45.60; 95 % CI: -88.16, -3.04, P = 0.036), and increased flow-mediated dilation (FMD) (WMD = 1.64, 95 % CI: 1.06, 2.22, P < 0.001), catalase (CAT) (WMD = 10.26; 95 % CI: 0.92, 19.61, P= 0.03), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) (WMD = 8.90; 95 % CI: 6.62, 11.19, P <0.001), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels (WMD = 20.51; 95 % CI: 7.35, 33.67, P= 0.002 and SMD = 0.82; 95 % CI: 0.27, 1.38, P= 0.004). However, curcumin did not significantly change total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (ES = 0.29; 95 % CI: -0.09, 0.66, P= 0.059). These results suggest that curcumin has a beneficial effect on CRP, IL-6, TNF-α, SOD, GPx, CAT, MDA, PWV, and FMD levels and may be an effective adjunctive therapy for improving inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial function. Registration number: PROSPERO, CRD42024539018.

Conjugates of 3,5-Bis(arylidene)-4-piperidone and Sesquiterpene Lactones Have an Antitumor Effect via Resetting the Metabolic Phenotype of Cancer Cells

In recent years, researchers have often encountered the significance of the aberrant metabolism of tumor cells in the pathogenesis of malignant neoplasms. This phenomenon, known as the Warburg effect, provides a number of advantages in the survival of neoplastic cells, and its application is considered a potential strategy in the search for antitumor agents. With the aim of developing a promising platform for designing antitumor therapeutics, we synthesized a library of conjugates of 3,5-bis(arylidene)-4-piperidone and sesquiterpene lactones. To gain insight into the determinants of the biological activity of the prepared compounds, we showed that the conjugates of 3,5-bis(arylidene)-4-piperidone and sesquiterpene lactones, which are cytotoxic agents, demonstrate selective activity toward a number of tumor cell lines with glycolysis-inhibiting ability. Moreover, the results of molecular and in silico screening allowed us to identify these compounds as potential inhibitors of the pyruvate kinase M2 oncoprotein, which is the rate-determining enzyme of glycolysis. Thus, the results of our work indicate that the synthesized conjugates of 3,5-bis(arylidene)-4-piperidone and sesquiterpene lactones can be considered a promising platform for designing selective cytotoxic agents against the glycolysis process, which opens new possibilities for researchers involved in the search for antitumor therapeutics among compounds containing piperidone platforms.

Neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin in Alzheimer's disease: Targeting neuroinflammation strategies

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, leading to neuronal loss. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound derived from Curcuma longa, has shown potential neuroprotective effects due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This review aims to synthesize current preclinical data on the anti-neuroinflammatory mechanisms of curcumin in the context of AD, addressing its pharmacokinetics, bioavailability, and potential as a therapeutic adjunct. An exhaustive literature search was conducted, focusing on recent studies within the last 10 years related to curcumin's impact on neuroinflammation and its neuroprotective role in AD. The review methodology included sourcing articles from specialized databases using specific medical subject headings terms to ensure precision and relevance. Curcumin demonstrates significant neuroprotective properties by modulating neuroinflammatory pathways, scavenging reactive oxygen species, and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Despite its potential, challenges remain regarding its limited bioavailability and the scarcity of comprehensive human clinical trials. Curcumin emerges as a promising therapeutic adjunct in AD due to its multimodal neuroprotective benefits. However, further research is required to overcome challenges related to bioavailability and to establish effective dosing regimens in human subjects. Developing novel delivery systems and formulations may enhance curcumin's therapeutic potential in AD treatment.

Innovative Delivery Systems for Curcumin: Exploring Nanosized and Conventional Formulations

Curcumin, a polyphenol with a rich history spanning two centuries, has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent targeting multiple signaling pathways and exhibiting cellular-level activities that contribute to its diverse health benefits. Extensive preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated its ability to enhance the therapeutic potential of various bioactive compounds. While its reported therapeutic advantages are manifold, predominantly attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, its efficacy is hindered by poor bioavailability stemming from inadequate absorption, rapid metabolism, and elimination. To address this challenge, nanodelivery systems have emerged as a promising approach, offering enhanced solubility, biocompatibility, and therapeutic effects for curcumin. We have analyzed the knowledge on curcumin nanoencapsulation and its synergistic effects with other compounds, extracted from electronic databases. We discuss the pharmacokinetic profile of curcumin, current advancements in nanoencapsulation techniques, and the combined effects of curcumin with other agents across various disorders. By unifying existing knowledge, this analysis intends to provide insights into the potential of nanoencapsulation technologies to overcome constraints associated with curcumin treatments, emphasizing the importance of combinatorial approaches in improving therapeutic efficacy. Finally, this compilation of study data aims to inform and inspire future research into encapsulating drugs with poor pharmacokinetic characteristics and investigating innovative drug combinations to improve bioavailability and therapeutic outcomes.

Deciphering the molecular mechanistic paths describing the chemotherapeutic potential and epigenetic regulation of curcumin in lung cancer: a mini review

In an uncontrolled inflammatory environment, the complex process of lung carcinogenesis occurs. Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The average 5-year survival rate is still low despite significant advancements in our knowledge of lung carcinogenesis and the development of innovative therapies in recent decades. Research on adjuvant treatment, lung carcinogenesis pathways, and possible prognostic indicators has to be refocused using an innovative approach. The majority of lung cancers are discovered at an advanced stage when there is little chance of recovery. It has grown in popularity in recent years to supplement already available chemotherapeutic therapies with adjuvant herbal medications, which may lessen toxicity and adverse effects without sacrificing therapeutic efficiency. One such prospective contender is curcumin. In-depth research has been done on curcumin as a multi-target anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory molecule. A pharmacologically active polyphenol produced from turmeric is called curcumin. Over the past few decades, curcumin's therapeutic potential has been thoroughly studied, and data indicate that curcumin may play a part in a variety of biological processes, most notably its potent anticancer activity. Being a pleiotropic chemical, curcumin regulates a variety of molecules that are key players in many cell signaling pathways. It has been shown to stifle transformation, restrain proliferation, and trigger apoptosis. Curcumin can reduce the development of non-small cell LC by downregulating Circular RNA hsa_circ_0007580, which in turn controls the expression of integrin subunit beta 1 by adsorbing miR-384. Nevertheless, despite all these advantages, curcumin's effectiveness is still restricted because of its weak bioavailability, poor absorption within the systemic circulation, and quick removal from the body. In an effort to overcome these constraints, scientists from all around the world are working to develop a synthetic and improved curcuminoid by appropriately altering the parent skeleton structurally. These curcuminoids will simultaneously improve the physicochemical properties and efficacy. This review presents evidence from the most recent clinical trials coupled with the molecular mechanisms of curcumin in LC.

Unlocking hidden potential: advancements, approaches, and obstacles in repurposing drugs for cancer therapy

High rates of failure, exorbitant costs, and the sluggish pace of new drug discovery and development have led to a growing interest in repurposing "old" drugs to treat both common and rare diseases, particularly cancer. Cancer, a complex and heterogeneous disease, often necessitates a combination of different treatment modalities to achieve optimal outcomes. The intrinsic polygenicity of cancer, intricate biological signalling networks, and feedback loops make the inhibition of a single target frequently insufficient for achieving the desired therapeutic impact. As a result, addressing these complex or "smart" malignancies demands equally sophisticated treatment strategies. Combinatory treatments that target the multifaceted oncogenic signalling network hold immense promise. Repurposed drugs offer a potential solution to this challenge, harnessing known compounds for new indications. By avoiding the prohibitive costs and long development timelines associated with novel cancer drugs, this approach holds the potential to usher in more effective, efficient, and cost-effective cancer treatments. The pursuit of combinatory therapies through drug repurposing may hold the key to achieving superior outcomes for cancer patients. However, drug repurposing faces significant commercial, technological and regulatory challenges that need to be addressed. This review explores the diverse approaches employed in drug repurposing, delves into the challenges faced by the drug repurposing community, and presents innovative solutions to overcome these obstacles. By emphasising the significance of combinatory treatments within the context of drug repurposing, we aim to unlock the full potential of this approach for enhancing cancer therapy. The positive aspects of drug repurposing in oncology are underscored here; encompassing personalized treatment, accelerated development, market opportunities for shelved drugs, cancer prevention, expanded patient reach, improved patient access, multi-partner collaborations, increased likelihood of approval, reduced costs, and enhanced combination therapy.

The protective effects of curcumin against cigarette smoke-induced toxicity: A comprehensive review

Cigarette smoking (CS) is a crucial modifiable risk of developing several human diseases and cancers. It causes lung, bladder, breast, and esophageal cancers, respiratory disorders, as well as cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Because of these adverse health effects, continual efforts to decrease the prevalence and toxicity of CS are imperative. Until the past decades, the impacts of natural compounds have been under investigation on the harmful effects of CS. Turmeric (Curcuma longa), a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, is the main source of curcumin. This review is an attempt to find out the current knowledge on CS's harmful effects and protective potential of curcumin in the pulmonary, liver, brain, gastrointestinal, and testis organs. According to the present review, simultaneous consumption of curcumin and CS can attenuate CS toxicities including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, gastrointestinal toxicity, metabolic diseases, testis injury, and neurotoxicity. Moreover, curcumin suppresses carcinogenesis in the skin, liver, lungs, breast, colon, and stomach. Curcumin mediates these protective effects through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and anti-carcinogenicity properties.

Therapeutic Approaches to Increase the Survival Rate of Cancer Patients in the Younger and Older Population

Various developments have been observed in the treatment of cancer patients, such as higher survival rates and better treatment outcomes. However, expecting similar outcomes in older patients remains a challenge. The main reason for this conclusion is the exclusion of older people from clinical trials for cancer drugs, as well as other factors, such as comorbidity, side effects, age-related frailties and their willingness to undergo multiple treatments. However, the discovery of new techniques and drug combinations has led to a significant improvement in the survival of the elderly population after the onset of the disease. On the other hand, cancer treatments have not become more complex for the younger population when compared to the older population, as the younger population tends to respond well to treatment trials and their physiological conditions are stable in response to treatments. In summary, this review correlates recent cancer treatment strategies and the corresponding responses and survival outcomes of older and younger patients.

Targeted therapies of curcumin focus on its therapeutic benefits in cancers and human health: Molecular signaling pathway-based approaches and future perspectives

The curry powder spices turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), which contains curcumin (diferuloylmethane), an orange-yellow chemical. Polyphenols are the most commonly used sources of curcumin. It combats oxidative stress and inflammation in diseases, such as hyperlipidemia, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, and depression. Most of these benefits are due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin consumption leads to decreased bioavailability, resulting in limited absorption, quick metabolism, and quick excretion, which hinders health improvement. Numerous factors can increase its bioavailability. Piperine enhances bioavailability when combined with curcumin in a complex. When combined with other enhancing agents, curcumin has a wide spectrum of health benefits. This review evaluates the therapeutic potential of curcumin with a specific emphasis on its approach based on molecular signaling pathways. This study investigated its influence on the progression of cancer, inflammation, and many health-related mechanisms, such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis. Curcumin has a significant potential for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. Curcumin modulates several biochemical pathways and targets involved in cancer growth. Despite its limited tissue accumulation and bioavailability when administered orally, curcumin has proven useful. This review provides an in-depth analysis of curcumin's therapeutic applications, its molecular signaling pathway-based approach, and its potential for precision medicine in cancer and human health.

Mechanism insights of curcumin and its analogues in cancer: An update

Cancer is the world's second leading cause of mortality and one of the major public health problems. Cancer incidence and mortality rates remain high despite the great advancements in existing therapeutic, diagnostic, and preventive approaches. Therefore, a quest for less toxic and more efficient anti-cancer strategies is still at the forefront of the current research. Traditionally important, curcumin commonly known as a wonder molecule has received considerable attention as an anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant candidate. However, limited water solubility and low bioavailability restrict its extensive utility in different pathological states. The investigators are making consistent efforts to develop newer strategies to overcome its limitations by designing different analogues with better pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. The present review highlights the recent updates on curcumin and its analogues with special emphasis on various mechanistic pathways involved in anti-cancer activity. In addition, the structure-activity relationship of curcumin analogues has also been precisely discussed. This article will also provide key information for the design and development of newer curcumin analogues with desired pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles and will provide in depth understanding of molecular pathways involved in the anti-cancer activities.

Curcumin-loaded nanocomplexes alleviate the progression of fluke-related cholangiocarcinoma in hamsters

Background

Curcumin-loaded nanocomplexes (CNCs) previously demonstrated lower toxicity and extended release better than is the case for free curcumin. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of CNCs against opisthorchiasis-associated cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) in hamsters.

Method

Dose optimization (dose and frequency) was performed over a 1-month period using hamsters, a model that is widely used for study of opisthorchiasis-associated cholangiocarcinoma. In the main experimental study, CCA was induced by a combination of fluke, Opisthorchis viverrini (OV), infection and N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) treatment. Either blank (empty) nanocomplexes (BNCs) or different concentrations of CNCs (equivalent to 10 and 20 mg cur/kg bw) were given to hamsters thrice a week for 5 months. The histopathological changes, biochemical parameters, and the expression of inflammatory/oncogenic transcription factors were investigated. In addition, the role of CNCs in attenuating CCA genesis, as seen in an animal model, was also confirmed in vitro using CCA cell lines.

Results

The optimization study revealed that treatment with CNCs at a dose equivalent to 10 mg cur/kg bw, thrice a week for 1 month, led to a greater reduction of inflammation and liver injury induced in hamsters by OV + NDMA than did treatments at other dose rates. Oral administration with CNCs (10 mg cur/kg bw), thrice a week for 5 months, significantly increased survival rate, reduced CCA incidence, extent of tumor development, cholangitis, bile duct injury and cholangiofibroma. In addition, this treatment decreased serum ALP and ALT activities and suppressed expression of NF-κB, FOXM1, HMGB1, PCNA and formation of 8-nitroguanine. Treatment of CCA cell lines with CNCs also reduced cell proliferation and colony formation, similar to those treated with NF-κB and/or FOXM1 inhibitors.

Conclusion

CNCs (10 mg cur/kg bw) attenuate the progression of fluke-related CCA in hamsters partly via a NF-κB and FOXM1-mediated pathway.

A comparison study between doxorubicin and curcumin co-administration and co-loading in a smart niosomal formulation for MCF-7 breast cancer therapy

Chemotherapy agents often exhibit limited effectiveness due to their fast elimination from the body and non-targeted delivery. Emerging nanomaterials as drug delivery carriers open new expectancy to overcome these limitations in current chemotherapeutic treatments. In this study, we introduce and evaluate a smart pH-responsive niosomal formulation capable of delivering Doxorubicin (DOX) and Curcumin (CUR) in both individually and co-loaded forms. In particular, drug-loaded niosomes were prepared using thin-film hydration method and then characterized via different physicochemical analyses. The pH responsivity of the carrier was assessed by performing a drug release study in three different pH conditions (4, 6.5, and 7.4). Finally, the anticancer efficacy of the therapeutic compounds was evaluated through the MTT assay. Our results showed spherical particles with a size of about 200 nm and -2 mV surface charge. Encapsulation efficiency (EE%) of the nanocarrier was about 77.06 % and 79.08 % for DOX and CUR, respectively. The release study confirmed the pH responsivity of the carrier. The MTT assay results revealed about 39 % and 43 % of cell deaths after treatment with cur-loaded and dox-loaded niosomes, which increased to 74 % and 79 % after co-administration and co-loading forms of drugs, respectively, exhibiting increased anticancer efficacy by selectively delivering DOX and CUR individually or in combination. Overall, these findings suggest that our nanoformulation holds the potential as a targeted and highly effective approach for cancer management and therapy, overcoming the limitations of conventional chemotherapy drugs.

pH-sensitive biosystem based on laponite RD/chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol hydrogels for controlled delivery of curcumin to breast cancer cells

In this study, a pH-responsive hydrogels based on laponite rapid dispersion (Lap®)/chitosan (CS)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) designed and was used for controlled delivery of the anticancer drug curcumin (CUR). First, it was accomplished by dissolving CUR in Lap® dispersion under the influence of the pH of the environment. Then, in the presence of Lap®CUR cross-linking was incorporated between CS and PVA polymers. The structural features of Lap®CUR/CS@PVA hydrogels are characterized using FT-IR, XRD, SEM/EDS, TEM, TGA, Zeta potential, and XPS. The in vitro drug release profiles confirmed a pH-responsive controlled release of CUR in acidic pH for all hydrogels. During 12 h, the cumulative release of CUR from Lap®CUR/0.1CS@PVA hydrogel was 27.9% and 12.3%, at pH 5.5 and 7.4, respectively. While during three days the release rate reached 48.5% and 18.5%. The CUR release kinetic from hydrogels also suggests that the kinetic data well fitted to the Korsmeyer-Peppas, diffusion-controlled and Fickian diffusion. Furthermore, in vitro cytotoxicity and DAPI staining study clearly illustrated that Lap®CUR/0.1CS@PVA hydrogel had lower cytotoxicity than CUR against MDA-MB 231 cancer cells, which confirmed the controlled release of drug through hydrogels. Meanwhile, in vitro hemolysis, antioxidant and antibacterial tests revealed that the prepared hydrogels have good blood compatibility, excellent antioxidant properties, and antibacterial activity. Based on the obtained results, the designed hydrogels could be potentially applied as pH-controlled drug delivery systems for cancer therapy.

Synthetic lethality in human bladder cancer cells by curcumin via concurrent Aurora A inhibition and autophagy induction

Combination therapies to induce mixed-type cell death and synthetic lethality have the potential to overcome drug resistance in cancer. In this study, we demonstrated that the curcumin-enhanced cytotoxicity of cisplatin/carboplatin in combination with gemcitabine was associated with Aurora A suppression-mediated G2/M arrest, and thus apoptosis, as well as MEK/ERK-mediated autophagy in human bladder cancer cells. Animal study data confirmed that curcumin combined with cisplatin/gemcitabine reduced tumorigenesis of xenograft in mice and this phenomenon was associated with elevated expressions of p-ERK and reduced p-Aurora A in tumors. Gene analyses using data repositories further revealed that reduced Aurora A expression alone did not significantly elevate the sensitivity of human bladder carcinoma cells to these anticancer drugs. Unlike other major cancer types, human bladder urothelial carcinoma tissue coexpressed higher AURKA and lower MAP1LC3B than normal tissue, and reduced Aurora A and induction of autophagy have been clinically associated with a better prognosis in patients with early but not advanced stage bladder cancer. Therefore, our results suggest that treatment strategies can utilize the synthetic lethal pair to concurrently suppress oncogenic Aurora A and induce autophagy by coadministrating curcumin with anticancer drugs for early-stage bladder cancer with high expression of Aurora A.

Characterization, quantification and a multi-computational in silico toxicity assessment of impurity (feruloyl methane) in synthetic curcumin using RP-HPLC-UV technique

Feruloyl Methane (FM) is a common impurity in Synthetic Curcumin (SC) that affects its purity and potency. The identification and quantification of FM is crucial to ensure the quality and safety of SC based drugs. The current study aims to develop and validate a simple, rapid and cost-effective analytical technique for the precise and accurate quantification of FM in SC using RP-HPLC with a UV-Vis detector (Ultraviolet/Visible) and assessment of its toxicity by multi-computational methods. The developed HPLC method with a UV-Vis detector enabled accurate identification and quantification of FM in SC. The optimized method was validated in accordance with ICH guidelines Q2(R1) and all parameters were found to be within the standard acceptance range. The ideal run time was determined to be 10 min and the impurity eluting at a retention time of 2.65 min was characterized using spectral techniques viz., mass spectrometry, FTIR and 1 H NMR, confirming the presence of FM. The amount of FM in SC was estimated to be 8.26 µg/kg. In addition, toxicity assessments using in silico tools such as ProTox- II, ADMETlab 2.0 and PASS Online indicated that the presence of FM in SC is not safe for human consumption. In conclusion, the developed method is not only capable of quantifying FM but also aids in distinguishing Natural Curcumin (NC) adulterated with SC and can be applied to a wide range of fields such as natural drug analysis, food analysis and toxicity prediction.

Dual Action of Curcumin as an Anti- and Pro-Oxidant from a Biophysical Perspective

Curcumin, a natural polyphenol widely used as a spice, colorant and food additive, has been shown to have therapeutic effects against different disorders, mostly due to its anti-oxidant properties. Curcumin also reduces the efficiency of melanin synthesis and affects cell membranes. However, curcumin can act as a pro-oxidant when blue light is applied, since upon illumination it can generate singlet oxygen. Our review aims to describe this dual role of curcumin from a biophysical perspective, bearing in mind its concentration, bioavailability-enhancing modifications and membrane interactions, as well as environmental conditions such as light. In low concentrations and without irradiation, curcumin shows positive effects and can be recommended as a beneficial food supplement. On the other hand, when used in excess or irradiated, curcumin can be toxic. Therefore, numerous attempts have been undertaken to test curcumin as a potential photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy (PDT). At that point, we underline that curcumin-based PDT is limited to the treatment of superficial tumors or skin and oral infections due to the weak penetration of blue light. Additionally, we conclude that an increase in curcumin bioavailability through the using nanocarriers, and therefore its concentration, as well as its topical use if skin is exposed to light, may be dangerous.

Lysosomes, curcumin, and anti-tumor effects: how are they linked?

Curcumin is a natural active ingredient from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that has multi-target characteristics to exert extensive pharmacological activities and thus has been applied in the treatment of various diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, nervous system, and autoimmune disorders. As an important class of membranous organelles in the intracellular membrane system, lysosomes are involved in biological processes such as programmed cell death, cell metabolism, and immune regulation, thus affecting tumor initiation and progression. It has been shown that curcumin can modulate lysosomal function through the aforementioned pathways, thereby affecting tumor proliferation, invasion, metastasis, drug resistance, and immune function. This review briefly elaborated the regulatory mechanisms of lysosome biogenesis and summarized curcumin-related studies with its anti-tumor effect, providing a reference for the clinical application of curcumin and anti-tumor research targeting lysosomes.

Effects of curcumin nanodelivery on schizophrenia and glioblastoma

Curcumin is a natural polyphenol, which has a variety of pharmacological activities, including, antineoplastic, antioxidative and neuroprotective effects. Recent studies provided evidence for the bioactive role of curcumin in the prevention and treatment of various central nervous system (CNS)-related diseases including Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, Schizophrenia disease and glioma neoplasia. Schizophrenia is a disabling psychiatric disorder related with an aberrant functional coupling between hippocampus and prefrontal cortex that might be crucial for cognitive dysfunction. Animal studies have lent support to the hypothesis that curcumin could improve cognitive functioning and enhance cell proliferation of dentate gyrus. In relation to brain tumors, specifically gliomas, the antineoplastic action of curcumin is based on the inhibition of cell growth promoting apoptosis or autophagy and preventing angiogenesis. However, one of the main impediments for the application of curcumin to patients is its low bioavailability. In intracranial lesions, curcumin has problems to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Currently nano-based drug delivery systems are opening a new horizon to tackle this problem. The bioavailability and effective release of curcumin can be made possible in the form of nanocurcumin. This nanoformulation preserves the properties of curcumin and makes it reach tissues with pathology. This review try to study the beneficial effects of the curcumin nanodelivery in central nervous pathologies such us schizophrenia and glioma disease.

Formation, digestion properties, and physicochemical stability of the rice bran oil body carrier system

Rice bran is a major by-product of rice processing with abundant nutrient content. Oil bodies (OBs), which are fat particles with unique physicochemical stability, are specialized organelles for the storage of oils and fats in plant tissues. In this study, we extracted OBs from rice bran, to evaluate the function of hydrophobic nutrients efficiently delivered by OBs. The carrier system was prepared by sonicating curcumin with medium chain triglycerides (MCT) into rice bran oil bodies (RBOBs). Emulsions comprising different RBOB mass fractions were characterized. The results showed that the highest encapsulation efficiency (EE, 87.67%), optimal particle size (190 nm), and best storage stability were achieved with the 1.5 wt% RBOBs. Based on activity evaluation data, the carrier system can achieve sustained oil release in the intestine and shows high bioaccessibility (61.04%; IC50 in Caco-2 cells was 77.21 μg/mL), which is important for promoting grain by-product utilization.

Curcuminoids as Anticancer Drugs: Pleiotropic Effects, Potential for Metabolic Reprogramming and Prospects for the Future

The number of published studies on curcuminoids in cancer research, including its lead molecule curcumin and synthetic analogs, has been increasing substantially during the past two decades. Insights on the diversity of inhibitory effects they have produced on a multitude of pathways involved in carcinogenesis and tumor progression have been provided. As this wealth of data was obtained in settings of various experimental and clinical data, this review first aimed at presenting a chronology of discoveries and an update on their complex in vivo effects. Secondly, there are many interesting questions linked to their pleiotropic effects. One of them, a growing research topic, relates to their ability to modulate metabolic reprogramming. This review will also cover the use of curcuminoids as chemosensitizing molecules that can be combined with several anticancer drugs to reverse the phenomenon of multidrug resistance. Finally, current investigations in these three complementary research fields raise several important questions that will be put among the prospects for the future research related to the importance of these molecules in cancer research.

Real-time monitoring of NIR-triggered drug release from phase-changeable nanodroplets by photoacoustic/ultrasound imaging

Optical-responsive nanodroplets have recently been studied as a new mode of remotely controlled drug delivery. As a class of new emerging smart drug carriers, NIR-absorber-loaded perfluorocarbon nanodroplets can be converted into gas bubbles through laser stimulation, called optical droplet vaporization (ODV), which provides a potential strategy to deliver therapeutic agents to solid tumors on demand. However, there is a lack of suitable technologies to monitor these drug-loaded nanodroplet behaviors in vivo, and control the site and amount of drug released. In this study, ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging technology were applied to directly monitor optical-responsive, drug-loaded nanodroplets within the tissue. We explored the effects of laser energy, repetition rate, and number of pulses on the release profiles of the delivered drug as well as ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging signal-intensity curves. The conducted studies demonstrated that this noninvasive technology helped determine the optimum time point for laser activation on accumulated drug-loaded nanodroplets within tissues, allowing for the potential to effectively treat pathologies while minimizing drug-related toxicities.

Langmuir and Langmuir-Blodgett technologies as nanoarchitectonic tools for the incorporation of curcumin in membrane systems

Curcumin (CCM) is a molecule of particular interest in health applications due to its wide spectrum of benefits for humans. However, its water-insoluble character and low bioavailability have so far prevented its extended use as a therapeutic agent. Incorporation of CCM in drug delivery vehicles (liposomes, vesicles, exosomes, etc.) is expected to contribute to increasing its bioavailability. Studies of the affinity of CCM with the components of the membrane systems of such vehicles and determination of factors that may enhance curcumin entrapment in biological membranes are of fundamental importance. To that end, here we take advantage of the nanoarchitectonic capabilities of the Langmuir technique for the construction of model cell membranes and determination of thermodynamic properties in mixed films. The obtained results may serve to: (i) provide some light on the miscibility of CCM with the components in the cell membrane and (ii) determine the optimal conditions for the fabrication of membrane systems incorporating CCM. For that, binary and ternary mixed Langmuir films of CCM, DPPC (1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine) and CHOL (cholesterol) have been prepared. Whilst binary mixtures of DPPC and CCM exhibit poor miscibility and even phase segregation, CHOL has shown itself as a key element to promote the incorporation of CCM in the phospholipidic membrane containing DPPC. Both the thermodynamic studies of the ternary Langmuir films and the Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) images of Langmuir-Blodgett films have shown that ternary mixed films with a molar fraction composition of x_DPPC/x_CHOL/x_CCM = 0.4/0.4/0.2 exhibit good miscibility, stability, and result in monolayers with a very homogeneous topography.

Profiling Inflammatory Biomarkers following Curcumin Supplementation: An Umbrella Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

Objective

Several meta-analyses have shown that curcumin can reduce inflammatory biomarkers, but the findings are inconsistent. The objective of the present umbrella meta-analysis was to provide a more accurate estimate of the overall effects of curcumin on inflammatory biomarkers.

Methods

The following international databases were systematically searched until March 20, 2022: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. A random-effects model was applied to evaluate the effects of curcumin on inflammatory biomarkers. Meta-analysis studies investigating the effects of curcumin supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers with corresponding effect sizes (ES) and confidence intervals (CI) were included in the umbrella meta-analysis. GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) was used to evaluate the certainty of evidence.

Results

A meta-analyses of ten studies with 5,870 participants indicated a significant decrease in C-reactive protein (CRP) (ES = -0.74; 95% CI: -1.11, -0.37, p < 0.001; I² = 62.1%, p=0.015), interleukin 6 (IL-6) (ES = -1.07; 95% CI: -1.71, -0.44, p < 0.001; I² = 75.6%, p < 0.001), and tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α) levels (ES: -1.92, 95% CI: -2.64, -1.19, p < 0.0; I² = 18.1%, p=0.296) following curcumin supplementation. Greater effects on CRP and TNF-α were evident in trials with a mean age >45 years and a sample size >300 participants.

Conclusion

The umbrella of meta-analysis suggests curcumin as a promising agent in reducing inflammation as an adjunctive therapeutic approach in diseases whose pathogenesis is related to a higher level of inflammatory biomarkers.

Immunomodulatory Therapeutic Effects of Curcumin on M1/M2 Macrophage Polarization in Inflammatory Diseases

BACKGROUND

Due to their plasticity, macrophages exert critical effects on both promoting and suppressing inflammatory processes. Pathologic inflammatory conditions are frequently correlated with dynamic alterations in macrophage activation, with classically activated M1 cells associated with the promotion and maintenance of inflammation and M2 cells being linked to the resolution or smouldering of chronic inflammation. Inflammation deputes a common feature of various chronic diseases and the direct involvement in the insurgence and development of these conditions. Macrophages participate in an autoregulatory loop characterizing the inflammatory process, as they produce a wide range of biologically active mediators that exert either deleterious or beneficial effects during the inflammation. Therefore, balancing the favorable ratios of M1/M2 macrophages can help ameliorate the inflammatory landscape of pathologic conditions. Curcumin is a component of turmeric with many pharmacological properties.

OBJECTIVE

Recent results from both in-vivo and in-vitro studies have indicated that curcumin can affect polarization and/or functions of macrophage subsets in the context of inflammation-related diseases. There is no comprehensive review of the impact of curcumin on cytokines involved in macrophage polarization in the context of inflammatory diseases. The present review will cover some efforts to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms by which curcumin modulates the macrophage polarization in distant pathological inflammatory conditions, such as cancer, autoimmunity, renal inflammation, stroke, atherosclerosis, and macrophage-driven pathogenesis.

RESULTS

The accumulation of the findings from in vitro and in vivo experimental studies suggests that curcumin beneficially influences M1 and M2 macrophages in a variety of inflammatory diseases with unfavorable macrophage activation.

CONCLUSION

Curcumin not only enhances anti-tumor immunity (via shifting M polarization towards M1 phenotype and/or up-regulation of M1 markers expression) but ameliorates inflammatory diseases, including autoimmune diseases (experimental autoimmune myocarditis and Behcet's disease), nephropathy, chronic serum sickness, stroke, and atherosclerosis.

Starch nanoparticles improve curcumin-induced production of anti-inflammatory cytokines in intestinal epithelial cells

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), encompassing Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is a long-term condition resulting from self-sustained intestinal inflammation. Curcumin (Cur), a powerful, naturally occurring antioxidant and anti-inflammatory polyphenol, has been investigated as a therapeutic for IBD, but its poor stability and low bioavailability limits its efficacy. We investigated the use of crosslinked starch nanocarrier (NPL) on the intracellular delivery and the anti-inflammatory efficiency of curcumin. Caco-2 epithelial cells were stimulated with TNFα for 24 h and the anti-inflammatory effects of NPL/Cur formulations were evaluated at the early stages of inflammation (4 h) or later, when fully established (24 h). NPL allowed the intracellular delivery of curcumin, which was enhanced in inflammatory cells, due to a modification of the endocytosis pathways. NPL/Cur decreased the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 while increasing the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Finally, the inflammation-related opening of the tight junctions better allowed NPL/Cur to cross the epithelium by paracellular transport. This was confirmed by ex vivo analysis where NPL/Cur, administered to colonic explants from chemically-induced acute colitis mouse model, delivered curcumin deeper in the epithelium. To conclude, NPL/Cur formulation emphasizes the anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin and could constitute a therapeutic alternative in the management of IBD.

Proteomic analysis of the chemosensitizing effect of curcumin on CRC cells treated with 5-FU

Background

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is one of the most common chemotherapy drugs used to treat colorectal cancer (CRC), which often develops resistance in more than 15% of patients. Curcumin, an active component of Curcuma longa, has been reported to show antitumor activity in CRC and, furthermore, enhance the effect of chemotherapy against colorectal cancer cells. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the sensitizing effect of curcumin on 5-FU have not been largely elucidated. In this study, we aimed to systematically investigate the role of curcumin as a chemosensitizer for the treatment of CRC, along with the key events responsible for its pharmaceutical effect, which may lead to better clinical outcomes.

Methods

A high-resolution 2DE-based proteomics approach was used to characterize global protein expression patterns in CRC cells treated with 5-FU both in combination with curcumin or without. The differentially expressed proteins were obtained from the 2DE analysis and subsequently identified by MALDI-TOF MS or nano-ESI-MS/MS, some of which were validated by the Western blot. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured to assess the change in the redox environment resulting from the drug treatment.

Results

A series of proteins with altered abundances were detected and identified by MALDI-TOF or nano-MS/MS. From a total of 512 isolated proteins, 22 proteins were found to be upregulated and 6 proteins were downregulated. Intracellular ROS was significantly elevated after curcumin treatment. Furthermore, mass spectrometry data revealed that some of the proteins appeared to have more oxidized forms upon curcumin treatment, suggesting a direct role for ROS in the chemosensitizing effect of curcumin.

Conclusion

The effect of curcumin in enhancing chemosensitivity to 5-FU is a complex phenomenon made up of several mechanisms, including enhancement of the intracellular level of ROS. Our findings presented here could provide clues for a further study aimed at elucidating the mechanisms underlying the chemosensitizing effect of curcumin.

Upregulation of ribosome complexes at the blood-brain barrier in Alzheimer's disease patients

The cerebrovascular-specific molecular mechanism in Alzheimer's disease (AD) was investigated by employing comprehensive and accurate quantitative proteomics. Highly purified brain capillaries were isolated from cerebral gray and white matter of four AD and three control donors, and examined by SWATH (sequential window acquisition of all theoretical fragment ion spectra) proteomics. Of the 29 ribosomal proteins that were quantified, 28 (RPLP0, RPL4, RPL6, RPL7A, RPL8, RPL10A, RPL11, RPL12, RPL14, RPL15, RPL18, RPL23, RPL27, RPL27A, RPL31, RPL35A, RPS2, RPS3, RPS3A, RPS4X, RPS7, RPS8, RPS14, RPS16, RPS20, RPS24, RPS25, and RPSA) were significantly upregulated in AD patients. This upregulation of ribosomal protein expression occurred only in brain capillaries and not in brain parenchyma. The protein expression of protein processing and N-glycosylation-related proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (DDOST, STT3A, MOGS, GANAB, RPN1, RPN2, SEC61B, UGGT1, LMAN2, and SSR4) were also upregulated in AD brain capillaries and was correlated with the expression of ribosomal proteins. The findings reported herein indicate that the ribosome complex, the subsequent protein processing and N-glycosylation-related processes are significantly and specifically upregulated in the brain capillaries of AD patients.

Phenolic constituents with anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic activities from the rhizomes of Iris domestica

Four undescribed flavonoid glucosides (iridins B-C, tectoridin A and ampelopsinin A); one undescribed phenolic glucoside (diplostephioside B); one undescribed phenolic compound (phenanthrenetriol A); and seventeen known compounds were isolated from the rhizomes of Iris domestica. The chemical structures of the undescribed compounds were established by spectroscopic/spectrometric data interpretation using HRESIMS, NMR, and ECD. Tectoridin A, nigricin A and naringenin exhibited anti-inflammatory activities with inhibition rates of 53.71%, 57.68% and 88.71%, respectively, against the NF-κB signaling pathway at a concentration of 10 μM. 4'-O-methylnyasol (10 μM) exhibited 84.91% antiproliferative activity against the K562 human leukemia cell line with an IC₅₀ value of 4.20 μM.

The role of nanomaterials in enhancing natural product translational potential and modulating endoplasmic reticulum stress in the treatment of ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer, and particularly its most frequent type, epithelial ovarian carcinoma, constitutes one of the most dangerous malignant tumors among females. Substantial evidence has described the potential of phytochemicals against ovarian cancer. The effect of natural compounds on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is of great relevance in this regard. In ovarian cancer, the accumulation of misfolded proteins in the ER lumen results in decompensated ER stress. This leads to deregulation in the physiological processes for the posttranslational modification of proteins, jeopardizes cellular homeostasis, and increases apoptotic signaling. Several metabolites and metabolite extracts of phytochemical origin have been studied in the context of ER stress in ovarian cancer. Resveratrol, quercetin, curcumin, fucosterol, cleistopholine, fucoidan, and epicatechin gallate, among others, have shown inhibitory potential against ER stress. The chemical structure of each compound plays an important role concerning its pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and overall effectiveness. Studying and cross-comparing the chemical features that render different phytochemicals effective in eliciting particular anti-ER stress actions can help improve drug design or develop multipotent combination regimens. Many studies have also investigated the properties of formulations such as nanoparticles, niosomes, liposomes, and intravenous hydrogel based on curcumin and quercetin along with some other phytomolecules in ovarian cancer. Overall, the potential of phytochemicals in targeting genetic mechanisms of ovarian cancer warrants further translational and clinical investigation.

Curcumin attenuates cadmium-induced atherosclerosis by regulating trimethylamine-N-oxide synthesis and macrophage polarization through remodeling the gut microbiota

BACKGROUND

Studies have shown that cadmium (Cd) exposure primarily occurs through diet, and Cd ingestion is a risk factor for atherosclerosis (AS). However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. As a target organ, the gastrointestinal tract may play a key role in Cd-induced AS. Additionally, as curcumin is insoluble in water but stable in the stomach of acidic pH, it may play regulative roles in the gut.

OBJECTIVES

We assess the effect of Cd exposure on gut flora, trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) metabolism and macrophage polarization, further investigate whether curcumin protects against Cd-induced AS by remodeling gut microbiota.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The results of 16 S rRNA sequencing show that Cd exposure causes diversity reduction and compositional alteration of the microbial community, resulting in the increasing TMAO synthesis, the imbalance of lipid metabolism, and the M1-type macrophage polarization in the mouse model (ApoE^-/-) of AS. As a result, the plaque area is increased with Cd exposure, shown by oil red O staining. TMAO synthesis is positively correlated with the concentration of blood Cd, and the dynamics of specific bacteria in this process were revealed at the phylum to genus levels. Moreover, the effects of intestinal flora and TMAO on Cd-induced AS are further confirmed via microbial transplantation from a mouse model not exposed to Cd, as the transplantation decreases plaque area. Finally, the gavage with curcumin reverses the Cd-induced pathological progression via gut flora restoration.

CONCLUSIONS

We first demonstrate that Cd exposure worsens the progression of AS via intestinal flora imbalance and increased TMAO synthesis. Curcumin was verified as a potential novel intervention for preventing Cd-induced AS via remodeling gut microbiota. This study elucidates a new approach for treating AS in regions with significant Cd exposure.

The Influence of Turmeric and Curcumin on Female Reproductive Processes

The present review summarizes the available knowledge concerning the action of curcumin, the best-known polyphenol among the rhizomes of Curcumas, on female reproductive processes and their dysfunctions. Curcumin affects a number of physiological processes, including female reproduction (puberty, reproductive aging, ovarian follicullogenesis and oogenesis, and fecundity). Curcumin can affect these processes via changes in the release and reception of pituitary and ovarian hormones, growth factors and cytokines. Furthermore, it can influence the response of ovarian cells to these substances and external environmental factors. Finally, curcumin can affect oxidative processes within the ovary and numerous intracellular signalling pathways related to ovarian cell proliferation and apoptosis. These effects suggest the applicability of curcumin for stimulation of female reproductive processes in vivo and in vitro, as well as for the prevention, mitigation, and treatment of various reproductive disorders from ovarian insufficiency and infertility to polycystic ovarian syndrome and ovarian cancer.

Polyphenols in Metabolic Diseases

Polyphenols (PPs) are a large group of phytochemicals containing phenolic rings with two or more hydroxyl groups. They possess powerful antioxidant properties, multiple therapeutic effects, and possible health benefits in vivo and in vitro, as well as reported clinical studies. Considering their free-radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory properties, these substances can be used to treat different kinds of conditions associated with metabolic disorders. Many symptoms of metabolic syndrome (MtS), including obesity, dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, elevated blood sugar, accelerating aging, liver intoxication, hypertension, as well as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders, are substantially relieved by dietary PPs. The present study explores the bioprotective properties and associated underlying mechanisms of PPs. A detailed understanding of these natural compounds will open up new opportunities for producing unique natural PP-rich dietary and medicinal plans, ultimately affirming their health benefits.

Curcumin Modulates Oxidative Stress, Fibrosis, and Apoptosis in Drug-Resistant Cancer Cell Lines

In cancer management, drug resistance remains a challenge that reduces the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Several studies have shown that curcumin resensitizes cancer cells to chemotherapeutic drugs to overcome resistance. In the present study, we investigate the potential therapeutic role of curcumin in regulating the proliferation of drug-resistant cancers. Six drug-sensitive (MCF7, HCT116, and A549) and -resistant (MCF7/TH, HCT116R, and A549/ADR) cancer cell lines were treated with curcumin followed by an analysis of cytotoxicity, LDH enzyme, total reactive oxygen species, antioxidant enzymes (SOD and CAT), fibrosis markers (TGF-β1 protein, fibronectin, and hydroxyproline), and expression of cellular apoptotic markers (Bcl-2, Bax, Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, Annexin V, cytochrome c, and caspase-8). Additionally, the expression of cellular SIRT1 was estimated by ELISA and RT-PCR analysis. Curcumin treatment at doses of 2.7–54.3 µM significantly reduced the growth of sensitive and resistant cells as supported with decreased viability and increased cellular LDH enzyme of treated cells compared to controls non-treated cells. Curcumin also at doses of 2.7 and 54.3 µM regulated the fibrogenesis by reducing the expression of fibrotic markers in treated cells. Analysis of apoptotic markers indicated increased Bax, Bax, Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, Annexin V, caspase-8, and cytochrome c expression, while Bcl-2 expressions were significantly reduced. In curcumin-treated cells at 2.7 μM, non-significant change in ROS with significant increase in SOD and CAT activity was observed, whereas an increase in ROS with a reduction in respective antioxidant enzymes were seen at higher concentrations along with significant upregulation of SIRT1. In conclusion, the present study shows that curcumin induces anticancer activity against resistant cancer cell lines in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. The protective activities of curcumin against the growth of cancer cells are mediated by modulating oxidative stress, regulating fibrosis, SIRT1 activation, and inducing cellular apoptosis. Therefore, curcumin could be tested as an auxiliary therapeutic agent to improve the prognosis in patients with resistant cancers.

Curcumin-Based Nanoformulations: A Promising Adjuvant towards Cancer Treatment

Throughout the United States, cancer remains the second leading cause of death. Traditional treatments induce significant medical toxic effects and unpleasant adverse reactions, making them inappropriate for long-term use. Consequently, anticancer-drug resistance and relapse are frequent in certain situations. Thus, there is an urgent necessity to find effective antitumor medications that are specific and have few adverse consequences. Curcumin is a polyphenol derivative found in the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa L.), and provides chemopreventive, antitumor, chemo-, and radio-sensitizing properties. In this paper, we summarize the new nano-based formulations of polyphenolic curcumin because of the growing interest in its application against cancers and tumors. According to recent studies, the use of nanoparticles can overcome the hydrophobic nature of curcumin, as well as improving its stability and cellular bioavailability in vitro and in vivo. Several strategies for nanocurcumin production have been developed, each with its own set of advantages and unique features. Because the majority of the curcumin-based nanoformulation evidence is still in the conceptual stage, there are still numerous issues impeding the provision of nanocurcumin as a possible therapeutic option. To support the science, further work is necessary to develop curcumin as a viable anti-cancer adjuvant. In this review, we cover the various curcumin nanoformulations and nanocurcumin implications for therapeutic uses for cancer, as well as the current state of clinical studies and patents. We further address the knowledge gaps and future research orientations required to develop curcumin as a feasible treatment candidate.

Utility of Intravenous Curcumin Nanodelivery Systems for Improving In Vivo Pharmacokinetics and Anticancer Pharmacodynamics

Curcumin nanoformulations for intravenous injection have been developed to offset poor absorption, biotransformation, degradation, and excessive clearance associated with parenteral delivery. This review investigates (1) whether intravenous nanoformulations improve curcumin pharmacokinetics (PK) and (2) whether improved PK yields greater therapeutic efficacy. Standard PK parameters (measured maximum concentration [C_max], area under the curve [AUC], distribution volume [V_d], and clearance [CL]) of intravenously administered free curcumin in mice and rats were sourced from literature and compared to curcumin formulated in nanoparticles, micelles, and liposomes. The studies that also featured analysis of pharmacodynamics (PD) in murine cancer models were used to determine whether improved PK of nanoencapsulated curcumin resulted in improved PD. The distribution and clearance of free and nanoformulated curcumin were very fast, typically accounting for >80% curcumin elimination from plasma within 60 min. Case-matched analysis demonstrated that curcumin nanoencapsulation generally improved curcumin PK in terms of measured C_max (n = 27) and AUC (n = 33), and to a lesser extent V_d and CL. However, when the data were unpaired and clustered for comparative analysis, only 5 out of the 12 analyzed nanoformulations maintained a higher relative curcumin concentration in plasma over time compared to free curcumin. Quantitative analysis of the mean plasma concentration of free curcumin versus nanoformulated curcumin did not reveal an overall marked improvement in curcumin PK. No correlation was found between PK and PD, suggesting that augmentation of the systemic presence of curcumin does not necessarily lead to greater therapeutic efficacy.

Curcumin, but not its degradation products, in combination with silibinin is primarily responsible for the inhibition of colon cancer cell proliferation

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer death globally and the most-commonly diagnosed cancer in men and women in the United States. We have previously shown that the phytochemicals curcumin, derived from turmeric, and silibinin from milk thistle exhibit synergistically enhanced anticancer activity against colorectal cancer cells. In the present study, the combination of curcumin, a major component of turmeric, and its degraded products trans-ferulic acid, ferulic aldehyde, and vanillin in combination with silibinin were assessed for their action against cancer cell proliferation. Our results indicate that only curcumin plus silibinin has significant antiproliferative effects on colon cancer cells.

Plants as a Source of Anticancer Agents: From Bench to Bedside

Cancer is the second leading cause of death after cardiovascular diseases. Conventional anticancer therapies are associated with lack of selectivity and serious side effects. Cancer hallmarks are biological capabilities acquired by cancer cells during neoplastic transformation. Targeting multiple cancer hallmarks is a promising strategy to treat cancer. The diversity in chemical structure and the relatively low toxicity make plant-derived natural products a promising source for the development of new and more effective anticancer therapies that have the capacity to target multiple hallmarks in cancer. In this review, we discussed the anticancer activities of ten natural products extracted from plants. The majority of these products inhibit cancer by targeting multiple cancer hallmarks, and many of these chemicals have reached clinical applications. Studies discussed in this review provide a solid ground for researchers and physicians to design more effective combination anticancer therapies using plant-derived natural products.

Nanocurcumin substantially alleviates noise stress-induced anxiety-like behavior: the roles of tight junctions and NMDA receptors in the hippocampus

Environmental noise stress affects non-auditory brain regions such as the hippocampus; an area of the brain implicated in cognition and emotion. Recent experimental data indicate that dysfunction of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and overexpression of NMDA receptors may cause anxiety. In this experiment, we evaluated the effect of nanocurcumin on anxiety-like behavior and the expression of tight junctions and NMDA receptor subunits in the hippocampus of rats exposed to traffic noise. Forty rats were assigned to control (CON), stress (ST), nanocurcumin (NC), and nanocurcumin+stress (NC+ST) groups. Anxiety-like behavior was evaluated through an elevated zero maze apparatus. The gene expression of tight junctions and NMDA receptor subunits was examined by real-time PCR in the hippocampus. Statistical analysis showed that noise exposure developed anxiety-like behavior and elevated the corticosterone level in the ST group compared to the CON group. The nanocurcumin administration decreased the stress and anxiety in the NC+ST group compared to the ST animals. While the noise stress reduced the gene expression of tight junctions occludin, claudin-5, and ZO-1, the nanocurcumin administration increased them in the NC+ST animals. Furthermore, the noise stress elevated the gene expression of the NMDA receptor subunits GRIN1 and GRIN2B. The NC+ST animals showed a modification of these subunits compared to the ST animals. Our findings showed that noise exposure promotes stress and anxiety and impairs the NMDA receptor structure and BBB integrity. The nanocurcumin treatment displayed partly restored the destructive effects of noise exposure.

Engineering cell-based microstructures to study the effect of structural complexity on in vitro bioaccessibility of a lipophilic bioactive compound

A fundamental understanding of the influence of food microstructures on the bioaccessibility of micronutrients is vital for the design of functionally efficient foods. This study investigated the effect of microstructural features of model foods on the bioaccessibility of a bioactive compound - curcumin, using a unique bottom-up approach. In this approach, individual yeast cells with infused curcumin were coated with oppositely charged polyelectrolytes: first in poly(diallyl-dimethylammonium chloride), then in dextran sulfate or alginate, and assembled electrostatically to generate two types of cell clusters. These cell clusters were embedded in an alginate film to form a tissue-like structure. The influence of cell clustering and extracellular matrix on the release of encapsulated curcumin from cell-based microcarriers during simulated digestion was evaluated. Cell clusters that maintained their integrity during in vitro simulated digestion retained up to twice as much curcumin upon addition of the simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) compared to single cells during the first hour of intestinal digestion. Despite significant differences in the release profile, no spatial heterogeneity of curcumin release across a cell cluster was observed with the imaging measurements. Embedding single cells or cell clusters in calcium-crosslinked alginate films resulted in another 20-30% increase in curcumin retention and a prolonged barrier effect for more than 2 hours compared to microstructures without the films. This bottom-up approach of engineering cell-based tissue-like structures proves to be an effective method for investigating the contributions of microstructural properties of food matrices to influencing bioaccessibility of bioactives and guides future development of functional food materials.

Efficient Delivery of Curcumin by Alginate Oligosaccharide Coated Aminated Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles and In Vitro Anticancer Activity against Colon Cancer Cells

We designed and synthesized aminated mesoporous silica (MSN-NH2), and functionally grafted alginate oligosaccharides (AOS) on its surface to get MSN-NH2-AOS nanoparticles as a delivery vehicle for the fat-soluble model drug curcumin (Cur). Dynamic light scattering, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to characterize the structure and performance of MSN-NH2-AOS. The nano-MSN-NH2-AOS preparation process was optimized, and the drug loading and encapsulation efficiencies of nano-MSN-NH2-AOS were investigated. The encapsulation efficiency of the MSN-NH2-Cur-AOS nanoparticles was up to 91.24 ± 1.23%. The pH-sensitive AOS coating made the total release rate of Cur only 28.9 ± 1.6% under neutral conditions and 67.5 ± 1% under acidic conditions. According to the results of in vitro anti-tumor studies conducted by MTT and cellular uptake assays, the MSN-NH2-Cur-AOS nanoparticles were more easily absorbed by colon cancer cells than free Cur, achieving a high tumor cell targeting efficiency. Moreover, when the concentration of Cur reached 50 μg/mL, MSN-NH2-Cur-AOS nanoparticles showed strong cytotoxicity against tumor cells, indicating that MSN-NH2-AOS might be a promising tool as a novel fat-soluble anticancer drug carrier.

Immune Tolerance vs. Immune Resistance: The Interaction Between Host and Pathogens in Infectious Diseases

The immune system is most likely developed to reduce the harmful impact of infections on the host homeostasis. This defense approach is based on the coordinated activity of innate and adaptive immune system components, which detect and target infections for containment, killing, or expulsion by the body's defense mechanisms. These immunological processes are responsible for decreasing the pathogen burden of an infected host to maintain homeostasis that is considered to be infection resistance. Immune-driven resistance to infection is connected with a second, and probably more important, defensive mechanism: it helps to minimize the amount of dysfunction imposed on host parenchymal tissues during infection without having a direct adverse effect on pathogens. Disease tolerance is a defensive approach that relies on tissue damage control systems to prevent infections from causing harm to the host. It also uncouples immune-driven resistance mechanisms from immunopathology and disease, allowing the body to fight infection more effectively. This review discussed the cellular and molecular processes that build disease tolerance to infection and the implications of innate immunity on those systems. In addition, we discuss how symbiotic relationships with microbes and their control by particular components of innate and adaptive immunity alter disease tolerance to infection.

Curcumin and Quercetin-Loaded Lipid Nanocarriers: Development of Omega-3 Mucoadhesive Nanoemulsions for Intranasal Administration

Curcumin (CUR) and quercetin (QU) are potential compounds for treatment of brain diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases (ND) because of their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, low water solubility and poor bioavailability hinder their clinical use. In this context, nanotechnology arises as a strategy to overcome biopharmaceutical issues. In this work, we develop, characterize, compare, and optimize three different omega-3 (ω-3) fatty acids nanoemulsions (NEs) loaded with CUR and QU (negative, cationic, gelling) prepared by two different methods for administration by intranasal route (IN). The results showed that formulations prepared with the two proposed methods exhibited good stability and were able to incorporate a similar amount of CUR and QU. On the other side, differences in size, zeta potential, in vitro release kinetics, and permeation/retention test were observed. Considering the two preparation methods tested, high-pressure homogenization (HPH) shows advantages, and the CQ NE- obtained demonstrated potential for sustained release. Toxicity studies demonstrated that the formulations were not toxic for Caenorhabditis elegans. The developed ω-3 fatty acid NEs have shown a range of interesting properties for the treatment of brain diseases, since they have the potential to increase the nose-to-brain permeation of CUR and QU, enabling enhanced treatments efficiency.

Microsatellite Status and IκBα Expression Levels Predict Sensitivity to Pharmaceutical Curcumin in Colorectal Cancer Cells

Simple Summary

The global burden of colorectal cancer is high. Chemotherapy has been the backbone of colorectal cancer therapy for decades. Toxic side effects and frequently occurring drug resistances remain challenging problems. Therefore, exploring natural compounds with low or even no toxicity holds great potential. However, natural curcumin is poorly absorbed, limiting its clinical use. Therefore, our focus was to screen different molecular types of colorectal cancer to find the ones with the highest sensitivity to curcumin. We observed very individual responses to curcumin for various colorectal cancer cell lines. Most curcumin-sensitive cell lines were of the microsatellite-stable molecular type, and expressed high baseline levels of the IκBα protein. Contrarily, curcumin-resistant lines were mainly microsatellite instable, with low baseline IκBα levels. Considering all of the data obtained, we conclude that patients with microsatellite-stable tumors and high baseline IκBα protein expression would benefit from treatment with novel curcumin formulations and derivatives.

Abstract

Clinical utilization of curcumin in colorectal cancer (CRC) was revived as a result of the development of novel curcumin formulations with improved bioavailability. Additionally, identification of biomarkers for curcumin sensitivity would also promote successful clinical applications. Here, we wanted to identify such biomarkers in order to establish a predictive model for curcumin sensitivity. Thirty-two low-passage CRC cell lines with specified tumor characteristics were included. Curcumin suppressed cell proliferation, yet sensitivity levels were distinct. Most curcumin-sensitive CRC cell lines were microsatellite stable and expressed high levels of IκBα. The predictive capacity of this biomarker combination possessed a statistical significance of 72% probability to distinguish correctly between curcumin-sensitive and -resistant CRC cell lines. Detailed functional analyses were performed with three sensitive and three resistant CRC cell lines. As curcumin’s mode of action, inhibition of NF-κB p65 activation via IκBα was identified. In consequence, we hypothesize that novel curcumin formulations—either alone or, more likely, in combination with standard therapeutics—can be expected to prove clinically beneficial for CRC patients with high IκBα expression levels.

Cellular and molecular mechanisms of curcumin on thyroid gland disorders

There is growing literature on the positive therapeutic potentials of curcumin. Curcumin or diferuloylmethane is a polyphenol obtained from the plant Curcuma longa. Curcumin has been used widely in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for various conditions. The role of curcumin on thyroid glands has been shown by its effects on various biological pathways, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-proliferative, apoptosis, angiogenesis, cell cycle and metastasis. We reviewed the recent literature on curcumin applications for thyroid dysfunction, including hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, and discussed the molecular mechanisms of these effects. This review aims to summarize the wealth of research related to the thyroid gland therapeutic effect of curcumin.