Interaction of curcumin with lipid monolayers and liposomal bilayers

The impact of biomolecule interactions on the cytotoxic effects of rhenium(I) tricarbonyl complexes

Rhenium complexes show great promise as anticancer drug candidates. Specifically, compounds with a Re(CO)3(NN)(py)+ core in their architecture have shown cytotoxicity equal to or greater than that of well-established anticancer drugs based on platinum or organic molecules. This study aimed to evaluate how the strength of the interaction between rhenium(I) tricarbonyl complexes fac-[Re(CO)3(NN)(py)]+, NN = 1,10-phenanthroline (phen), dipyrido[3,2-f:2',3'-h]quinoxaline (dpq) or dipyrido[3,2-a:2'3'-c]phenazine (dppz) and biomolecules (protein, lipid and DNA) impacted the corresponding cytotoxic effect in cells. Results showed that fac-[Re(CO)3(dppz)(py)]+ has higher Log Po/w and binding constant (Kb) with biomolecules (protein, lipid and DNA) compared to complexes of fac-[Re(CO)3(phen)(py)]+ and fac-[Re(CO)3(dpq)(py)]+. As consequence, fac-[Re(CO)3(dppz)(py)]+ exhibited the highest cytotoxicity (IC50 = 8.5 μM for HeLa cells) for fac-[Re(CO)3(dppz)(py)]+ among the studied compounds (IC50 > 15 μM). This highest cytotoxicity of fac-[Re(CO)3(dppz)(py)]+ are probably related to its lipophilicity, higher permeation of the lipid bilayers of cells, and a more potent interaction of the dppz ligand with biomolecules (protein and DNA). Our findings open novel avenues for rational drug design and highlight the importance of considering the chemical structures of rhenium complexes that strongly interact with biomolecules (proteins, lipids, and DNA).

Assessment of Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Activities of Liposomes Loaded with Curcumin and Lippia origanoides Essential Oil

(1) Introduction: Curcumin and Lippia origanoides essential oils have a broad spectrum of biological activities; however, their physicochemical instability, low solubility, and high volatility limit their therapeutic use. Encapsulation in liposomes has been reported as a feasible approach to increase the physicochemical stability of active substances, protect them from interactions with the environment, modulate their release, reduce their volatility, improve their bioactivity, and reduce their toxicity. To date, there are no reports on the co-encapsulation of curcumin and Lippia origanoides essential oils in liposomes. Therefore, the objective of this work is to prepare and physiochemical characterize liposomes loaded with the mixture of these compounds and to evaluate different in vitro biological activities. (2) Methods: Liposomes were produced using the thin-layer method and physiochemical characteristics were calculated. The antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of both encapsulated and non-encapsulated compounds were evaluated. (3) Results: Empty and loaded nanometric-sized liposomes were obtained that are monodisperse and have a negative zeta potential. They inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and did not exhibit cytotoxic activity against mammalian cells. (4) Conclusions: Encapsulation in liposomes was demonstrated to be a promising strategy for natural compounds possessing antimicrobial activity.

In vitro and in ovo photodynamic efficacy of nebulized curcumin-loaded tetraether lipid liposomes prepared by DC as stable drug delivery system

Lung cancer is one of the most common causes of high mortality worldwide. Current treatment strategies, e.g., surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, insufficiently affect the overall outcome. In this study, we used curcumin as a natural photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy and encapsulated it in liposomes consisting of stabilizing tetraether lipids aiming for a pulmonary drug delivery system against lung cancer. The liposomes with either hydrolyzed glycerol-dialkyl-glycerol tetraether (hGDGT) in different ratios or hydrolyzed glycerol-dialkyl-nonitol tetraether (hGDNT) were prepared by dual centrifugation (DC), an innovative method for liposome preparation. The liposomes' physicochemical characteristics before and after nebulization and other nebulization characteristics confirmed their suitability. Morphological characterization using atomic force and transmission electron microscopy showed proper vesicular structures indicative of liposomes. Qualitative and quantitative uptake of the curcumin-loaded liposomes in lung adenocarcinoma (A549) cells was visualized and proven. Phototoxic effects of the liposomes were detected on A549 cells, showing decreased cell viability. The generation of reactive oxygen species required for PDT and disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential were confirmed. Moreover, the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model was used to further evaluate biocompatibility and photodynamic efficacy in a 3D cell culture context. Photodynamic efficacy was assessed by PET/CT after nebulization of the liposomes onto the xenografted tumors on the CAM with subsequent irradiation. The physicochemical properties and the efficacy of tetraether lipid liposomes encapsulating curcumin, especially liposomes containing hGDNT, in 2D and 3D cell cultures seem promising for future PDT usage against lung cancer.

The mechanism of encapsulating curcumin into oleosomes (Lipid Droplets)

Organisms have evolved intracellular micron-sized lipid droplets to carry and protect lipids and hydrophobic minor compounds in the hydrophilic environment of cells. These droplets can be utilized as carriers of hydrophobic therapeutics by taking advantage of their biological functions. Here, we focus on the potential of plant-derived lipid droplets, known as oleosomes, as carriers for hydrophobic therapeutics, such as curcumin. By spectroscopy and confocal microscopy, we demonstrate that the oleosome membrane is permeable to hydrophobic curcumin molecules. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching shows rapid curcumin diffusion towards oleosomes, with a diffusion time in the range of seconds. Following this, quenching probes and dilatational rheology reveal that part of the loaded curcumin molecules can accumulate at the oleosome interface, and the rest settle in the inner core. Our findings shed light on the loading mechanism of the plant-derived lipid droplets and underscore the significance of molecular localization for understanding the mechanism. This work not only enhances the understanding of the loading process but also shows potential for oleosomes use as lipid carriers.

Curcumin-Poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) Conjugates as Potent Zika Virus Entry Inhibitors

Curcumin, a natural product with recognized antiviral properties, is limited in its application largely due to its poor solubility. This study presents the synthesis of water-soluble curcumin-poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (Cur-PSSNan) covalent conjugates. The antiflaviviral activity of conjugates was validated in vitro by using the Zika virus as a model. In the development of these water-soluble curcumin-containing derivatives, we used the macromolecules reported by us to also hamper viral infections. Mechanistic investigations indicated that the conjugates exhibited excellent stability and bioavailability. The curcumin and macromolecules in concerted action interact directly with virus particles and block their attachment to host cells, hampering the infection process.

Effects of curcumin in the interaction with cardiolipin-containg lipid monolayers and bilayers

Curcumin, a plant polyphenol extracted from the Chinese herb turmeric, has gained widespread attention in recent years because of its multifunctional properties as antioxidant, antinflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer agent. Effects of the molecule on mitochondrial membranes properties have also been evidenced. In this work, the interaction of curcumin with models of mitochondrial membranes composed of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) or mixtures of DMPC and 4 mol% tetramyristoylcardiolipin (TMCL) has been investigated by using biophysical techniques. Spectrophotometry and fluorescence allowed to determine the association constant and the binding energy of curcumin with pure DMPC and mixed DMPC/TMCL aqueous bilayers. The molecular organization of pure DMPC and cardiolipin-containing Langmuir monolayers at the air-water interface were investigated and the morphology of the monolayers transferred into mica substrates were characterized through atomic force microscopy (AFM). It is found that curcumin associates at the polar/apolar interface of the lipid bilayers and the binding is favored in the presence of cardiolipin. At 2 mol%, curcumin is well miscible with lipid monolayers, particularly with mixed DMPC/TMCL ones, where compact terraces formation characterized by a reduction of the surface roughness is observed in the AFM topographic images. At 10 mol%, curcumin perturbs the stability of DMPC monolayers and morphologically are evident terraces surrounded by cur aggregates. In the presence of TMCL, very few curcumin aggregates and larger compact terraces are observed. The overall results indicate that cardiolipin augments the incorporation of curcumin in model membranes highlighting the mutual interplay cardiolipin-curcumin in mitochondrial membranes.

Application of curcumin nanoformulations to target folic acid receptor in cancer: Recent trends and advances

Curcumin, derived from turmeric, has a strong anticancer potential known for millennia. The development of this phytochemical as a medicine has been hampered by several significant deficiencies, including its poor water solubility and low bioavailability. This review article discusses possibilities to overcome these bottlenecks by focusing on this natural polyphenol's nanoformulation. Moreover, preparation of curcumin conjugates containing folates as ligands for folic acid receptors can add a new important dimension in this field, allowing specific targeting of cancer cells, considering the significantly higher expression of these receptors in malignant tissues compared to normal cells. It is highly expected that simultaneous improvement of different aspects of curcumin in fighting against such a complex and multifaceted disease like cancer. Therefore, we can better comprehend cancer biology by developing a mechanistic understanding of curcumin, which will also inspire the scientific community to develop new pharmacological models, and exploration of emerging directions to revitalize application of natural products in cancer therapy.

Assessment of the antidiabetic potential of extract and novel phytoniosomes formulation of Tradescantia pallida leaves in the alloxan-induced diabetic mouse model

Diabetes inflicts health and economic burdens on communities and the present antidiabetic therapies have several drawbacks. Tradescantia pallida leaves have been used as a food colorant and food preservative; however, to our knowledge antidiabetic potential of the leaves of T. pallida has not been explored yet. The current study aimed to investigate the antidiabetic potential of T. pallida leaves extract and its comparison with the novel nisosome formulation of the extract. The leaves extract and phytoniosomes of T. pallida in doses of 15, 25 and 50 mg/kg were used to assess the oral glucose loaded, and alloxan-induced diabetic mice models. The biological parameters evaluated were; change in body weight, blood biochemistry, relative organ to body weight ratio and histopathology of the liver, pancreas and kidney. Results revealed that the extract 50 mg/kg and phytoniosomes 25 and 50 mg/kg remarkably reduced the blood glucose level in all hyperglycemic mice by possibly inhibiting α-amylase and α-glucosidase production. Body weight and blood biochemical parameters were considerably improved in phytoniosomes 50 mg/kg treated group. The relative body weight was similar to those of healthy mice in extract 50 mg/kg, phytoniosomes 25 mg/kg, and phytoniosomes 50 mg/kg treated groups. Histopathology showed the regeneration of cells in the CHN50 treated group. Hyphenated chromatographic analysis revealed potent metabolites, which confirmed the antidiabetic potential of the extract by inhibiting α-amylase and α-glucosidase using in silico analysis. The present data suggested that phytoniosomes have shown better antidiabetic potential than crude extract of these leaves.

A New Productive Approach and Formulative Optimization for Curcumin Nanoliposomal Delivery Systems

The use of natural resources and the enhancing of technologies are outlining the strategies of modern scientific-technological research for sustainable health products manufacturing. In this context, the novel simil-microfluidic technology, a mild production methodology, is exploited to produce liposomal curcumin as potential powerful dosage system for cancer therapies and for nutraceutical purposes. Through simil-microfluidic technology, based on interdiffusion phenomena of a lipid-ethanol phase in an aqueous flow, massive productions of liposomes at nanometric scale can be obtained. In this work, studies on liposomal production with useful curcumin loads were performed. In particular, process issues (curcumin aggregations) were elucidated and formulation optimization for curcumin load was performed. The main achieved result has been the definition of operative conditions for nanoliposomal curcumin production with interesting loads and encapsulation efficiencies.

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.

The Role of Singlet Oxygen in Photoreactivity and Phototoxicity of Curcumin

Curcumin is a plant-derived yellow-orange compound widely used as a spice, dye and food additive. It is also believed to have therapeutic effects against different disorders. On the other hand, there are data showing its phototoxicity against bacteria, fungi and various mammalian cells. Since the mechanism of its phototoxic action is not fully understood, we investigated here the phototoxic potential of curcumin in liposomal model membranes and in HaCaT cells. First, detection of singlet oxygen (¹ O₂ ) luminescence proved that curcumin generates ¹ O₂ upon blue light irradiation in organic solvent and in liposomes. Then, HPLC-EC(Hg) measurements revealed that liposomal and cellular cholesterol is oxidized by ¹ O₂ photogenerated by curcumin. Enrichment of liposome membranes with curcumin significantly increased the oxygen photo-consumption rate compared to the control liposomes as determined by EPR oximetry. Cytotoxicity measurements, mitochondrial membrane potential analyses and protein hydroperoxides detection confirmed strong phototoxic effects of curcumin in irradiated HaCaT cells. These data show that since curcumin is advertised as a valuable dietary supplement, or a component of cosmetics for topical use, caution should be recommended especially when skin is exposed to light.

Phytochemical Targeting of Mitochondria for Breast Cancer Chemoprevention, Therapy, and Sensitization

Breast cancer is a common and deadly disease that causes tremendous physical, emotional, and financial burden on patients and society. Early-stage breast cancer and less aggressive subtypes have promising prognosis for patients, but in aggressive subtypes, and as cancers progress, treatment options and responses diminish, dramatically decreasing survival. Plants are nutritionally rich and biologically diverse organisms containing thousands of metabolites, some of which have chemopreventive, therapeutic, and sensitizing properties, providing a rich source for drug discovery. In this study we review the current landscape of breast cancer with a central focus on the potential role of phytochemicals for treatment, management, and disease prevention. We discuss the relevance of phytochemical targeting of mitochondria for improved anti-breast cancer efficacy. We highlight current applications of phytochemicals and derivative structures that display anti-cancer properties and modulate cancer mitochondria, while describing future applicability and identifying areas of promise.

Impact of curcumin loading on the physicochemical, mechanical and antimicrobial properties of a methacrylate-based experimental dental resin

Oral biofilms are directly linked to one of the most common chronic human diseases, dental caries. Resin-based dental materials have significant potential to replace amalgam, however they lack sufficient antimicrobial power. This innovative study investigates a curcumin-loaded dental resin which can be utilized in an antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) approach. The study evaluated the effects of curcumin loading on resin physicochemical, mechanical, and adhesive properties, as well as the antimicrobial response associated with blue light activation. Preliminary tests involving degree of conversion (DC) and sample integrity determined the optimal loading of curcumin to be restricted to 0.05 and 0.10 wt%. These optimal loadings were tested for flexural strength (FS), water sorption (WS) and solubility (SL), shear bond strength to dentin (SBS), and viability of Streptococcus mutans under 14.6 J/cm² blue light or dark conditions, in 6 h and 24 h biofilms. The results demonstrated that 0.10 wt% curcumin had minimal impact on either FS or SBS, but detectably increased WS and SL. A 2 log₁₀ (CFU/mL) reduction in S. mutans after light application in both 6 h and 24 h biofilms were corroborated by CLSM imaging and highlighted the significant potential of this novel aPDT approach with resin-based dental materials.

Curcumin- and resveratrol-co-loaded nanoparticles in synergistic treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Currently, systemic therapies for patients with advanced-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) rely mainly on systemic drugs. However, traditional systemic drugs have a high rate of serious adverse events, and the curative effects of some potential anticancer drugs, such as curcumin (CUR) and resveratrol (RSV), are less apparent due to their poor bioavailability. Therefore, it is urgent to develop a highly effective therapy to improve patient prognosis. Herein, an injectable HCC-targeted nanoparticle (NP) was designed to deliver CUR and RSV to hepatoma cells.

RESULTS

The molecular self-assembled NPs showed higher tumour retention through the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect of the NPs and surface modification with the HCC-specific peptide moiety SP94 to effectively treat HCC. These HCC-targeted NPs led to a significant reduction in the drug dosage, delayed the rate of drug release and improved the bioavailability of the encapsulated drugs. The drug concentrations in the vicinity of the tumour increased, and a good therapeutic effect was observed without obvious side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

These SP94-mediated NPs allowed large amounts of antitumor drugs to accumulate in tumours, providing a novel strategy for innovative HCC therapy. This nanoplatform also offers an idea for exploring other potential chemotherapeutics.

Interactions between curcumin and cell membrane models by Langmuir monolayers

Studying interactions between potential anticancer drugs and cell membrane models is of great interest to explore the capability of novel drugs in the development of anticancer treatments. Lipid membrane models are useful to understand cellular interactions and to discern drug mechanism action. Here, the interactions of curcumin, as a bioactive natural compound with anti-cancer properties, with both healthy and cancerous or tumor cell membrane models, based on Langmuir monolayers, have been studied. The healthy-cell membrane model is composed of cholesterol 67%, and saturated lipid dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine 33%. The cancerous-cell-membrane-model is composed of a lower proportion of cholesterol, 25%, and unsaturated lipid sphingomyelin 75%. To compare their interaction with curcumin we report the compression isotherms registered for both lipid membrane models and curcumin in different proportions, their compression moduli and the thermodynamic interaction parameters. From this analysis, we evidence a destabilizing interaction between curcumin and the cancerous cell membrane model in comparison with the healthy one. This interaction is further visualized by micro-Brewster Angle and Atomic Force Microscopies. Our experiments show that the drug enhances cohesion in the healthy membrane model whereas it fluidifies the cancerous cell membrane model causing thermodynamic destabilization. These are useful results to improve the selectivity of the drug avoiding adverse side effects of most current anticancer therapies.

Curcumin Modulates 1,2-dibehenoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DBPC) Liposomes: Chitosan Oligosaccharide Lactate Influences Membrane Fluidity But Does Not Alter Phase Transition Temperature of DBPC Liposomes

1,2-dibehenoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DBPC) is one of the important phospholipids found in cell membrane but not studied well. Importance of curcumin as a dietary supplement and for its medicinal properites is getting widely recoginsed. The present study for the first time explores the effect of curcumin on properties of DBPC liposomes by monitoring the fluorescence properties of curcumin. The phase transition temperature (Tm) of DBPC is assessed which confirms increase in curcumin concentration causes a slight drop in the Tm value. Chitosan is being applied for various drug delivery uses. The study establishes new insight on effect of chitosan oligosaccharide lactate on DBPC liposomes. It is found that in the absence of chitosan oligosaccharide lactate, curcumin partitions more strongly in the liquids crystalline phase than in the solid gel phase, however, the opposite result is obtained with the presence of chitosan oligosaccharide lactate which penetrates into the DBPC liposomes membranes at higher temperature, blocking thus the passage of curcumin into the lipid bilayer. However, addition of chitosan oligosaccharide lactate had no effect on the Tm. Fluorescence quenching study of curcumin establishes that the location of curcumin to be in the hydrophobic cavity of DBPC membrane.

Glutathione- and apolipoprotein E-grafted liposomes to regulate mitogen-activated protein kinases and rescue neurons in Alzheimer's disease

Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), present biomedical challenges due to inability of pharmaceuticals to permeate the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and lack of therapeutic specificity in definite sites against multiple pathologies. Phosphatidylcholine (PC)-liposomes carrying curcumin (CURC), quercetin (QU), epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and rosmarinic acid (RA) with crosslinked glutathione (GSH) and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) were fabricated to recognize brain microvascular endothelial cells and amyloid beta (Aβ), and reduce tau protein hyperphosphorylation for AD management. Addition of stearic acid to liposomal bilayers ameliorated particle stability, promoted drug entrapment efficiency, and prolonged drug release duration. The triple targeting liposomes boosted the capability of CURC, QU, EGCG and RA for crossing the BBB with the assistance of grafted GSH and ApoE and docking Aβ around SK-N-MC cells using ApoE and PC. Moreover, GSH-ApoE-PC-liposomes benefited the 4 medicines in simultaneously transporting to Aβ_1-42-insulted neurons, in functioning against hyperphosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinases, including p-c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase, p-extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1/2 and p-p38, in downregulating tau protein at S202, caspase-3 and interleukin-6, and in upregulating p-cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element-binding protein. GSH-ApoE-PC-liposomes can be promising colloidal carriers in delivering CURC, QU, EGCG and RA to degenerated neural tissue in a controlled manner, targeting pathological factors for neuroprotection, and raising preclinical effectualness for AD treatment.

Encapsulation of Curcumin in Polystyrene-Based Nanoparticles-Drug Loading Capacity and Cytotoxicity

Nanoparticles made of amphiphilic block copolymers are commonly used in the preparation of nano-sized drug delivery systems. Poly(styrene)-block -poly(acrylic acid) (PS-PAA) copolymers have been proposed for drug delivery purposes; however, the drug loading capacity and cytotoxicity of PS-PAA nanoparticles are still not fully recognized. Herein, we investigated the accumulation of a model hydrophobic drug, curcumin, and its spatial distribution inside the PS-PAA nanoparticles. Experimental methods and atomistic molecular dynamics simulations were used to understand the molecular structure of the PS core and how curcumin molecules interact and organize within the PS matrix. The hydrophobic core of the PS-PAA nanoparticles consists of adhering individually coiled polymeric chains and is compact enough to prevent post-incorporation of curcumin. However, the drug has a good affinity for the PS matrix and can be efficiently enclosed in the PS-PAA nanoparticles at the formation stage. At low concentrations, curcumin is evenly distributed in the PS core, while its aggregates were observed above ca. 2 wt %. The nanoparticles were found to have relatively low cytotoxicity to human skin fibroblasts, and the presence of curcumin further increased their biocompatibility. Our work provides a detailed description of the interactions between a hydrophobic drug and PS-PAA nanoparticles and information on the biocompatibility of these anionic nanostructures which may be relevant to the development of amphiphilic copolymer-based drug delivery systems.

Comparison of cubosomes and liposomes for the encapsulation and delivery of curcumin

Inverse bicontinuous cubic phase nanoparticles (cubosomes) have attracted significant attention in recent years, owing to their potential use as delivery vehicles for chemically fragile or poorly soluble drugs and nutraceuticals. Herein we have investigated the use of lipid nanoparticles as a delivery vehicle for curcumin, a compound with demonstrated anti-cancer properties. Curcumin is encapsulated within cubosomes comprised of several different lipid formulations, as well as phospholipid-based liposomes. The entrapment efficiency of curcumin within cubosomes was observed to vary depending on both the nanoparticle architecture and the curcumin concentration. Fluorescence spectroscopy analysis revealed that penetration of curcumin into the hydrophobic region of the bilayer was dependent on lipid composition. Curcumin was typically associated with the polar headgroup region at low concentrations, but transferred to the lipid bilayer region at higher concentrations, particularly in phytantriol cubosomes. Each nanoparticle formulation was characterized using small angle X-ray scattering and dynamic light scattering to assess the structural stability subsequent to curcumin encapsulation. The structure of the cubosomes was generally robust to the addition of curcumin, while the liposomes displayed a large increase in particle size and PDI at higher curcumin concentrations. Finally, the cytotoxicity of each formulation was assessed against murine fibroblast (NIH3T3) and murine melanoma (B16F10) cell lines in order to investigate improvements in curcumin bioavailability following encapsulation in cubosomes, as well as assess potential anti-cancer applications. Increased cytotoxicity of the cubosome-loaded curcumin against the murine melanoma cell-line demonstrates the potential of these nanoparticles as delivery vehicles for curcumin and other poorly water-soluble drugs.

Mimicking the Mammalian Plasma Membrane: An Overview of Lipid Membrane Models for Biophysical Studies

Cell membranes are very complex biological systems including a large variety of lipids and proteins. Therefore, they are difficult to extract and directly investigate with biophysical methods. For many decades, the characterization of simpler biomimetic lipid membranes, which contain only a few lipid species, provided important physico-chemical information on the most abundant lipid species in cell membranes. These studies described physical and chemical properties that are most likely similar to those of real cell membranes. Indeed, biomimetic lipid membranes can be easily prepared in the lab and are compatible with multiple biophysical techniques. Lipid phase transitions, the bilayer structure, the impact of cholesterol on the structure and dynamics of lipid bilayers, and the selective recognition of target lipids by proteins, peptides, and drugs are all examples of the detailed information about cell membranes obtained by the investigation of biomimetic lipid membranes. This review focuses specifically on the advances that were achieved during the last decade in the field of biomimetic lipid membranes mimicking the mammalian plasma membrane. In particular, we provide a description of the most common types of lipid membrane models used for biophysical characterization, i.e., lipid membranes in solution and on surfaces, as well as recent examples of their applications for the investigation of protein-lipid and drug-lipid interactions. Altogether, promising directions for future developments of biomimetic lipid membranes are the further implementation of natural lipid mixtures for the development of more biologically relevant lipid membranes, as well as the development of sample preparation protocols that enable the incorporation of membrane proteins in the biomimetic lipid membranes.

Interaction of curcumin with diarachidonyl phosphatidyl choline (DAPC) liposomes: Chitosan protects DAPC liposomes without changing phase transition temperature but impacting membrane permeability

The developing public interest in traditional medicine, especially plants-based drug, has prompted extensive research on the potential of naturally existing compounds. Among these compounds, curcumin is currently one of the most studied substances. In this study, we elaborate the physical properties of diarachidonyl phosphatidyl choline (DAPC) liposome using fluorescence method, where curcumin at low concentration was used as a probe molecule. In the first place, the phase transition temperature of DAPC was determined by following the fluorescence intensity of curcumin as a function of temperature, along with evaluating the effect of concentration of curcumin in the presence or absence of chitosan oligosaccharide lactate as an additional protective layer. On the other hand, quenching reactions using CPB and KI as quenchers reflected the ease of entry of different concentrations of these quenchers to the curcumin located in the hydrophobic core of the liposome which give new insight about the lipophilicity and permeability of the DAPC membrane. Finally, the partition coefficient analysis was investigated. It was concluded that curcumin has a higher partition coefficient at a temperature above the phase transition temperature of DAPC liposomes where the liposome is in the fluid liquid crystalline phase. Modulation of liposomes properties in the presence of chitosan oligosaccharide lactate layer was for the first time investigated. Chitosan oligosaccharide lactate acts as protecting layer without changing the phase transition temperature, but it affects the membrane permeability depending on solid gel and liquid crystalline phase.

Coacervate Thermoresponsive Polysaccharide Nanoparticles as Delivery System for Piroxicam

Low water solubility frequently compromises the therapeutic efficacy of drugs and other biologically active molecules. Here, we report on coacervate polysaccharide nanoparticles (CPNs) that can transport and release a model hydrophobic drug, piroxicam, to the cells in response to changes in temperature. The proposed, temperature-responsive drug delivery system is based on ionic derivatives of natural polysaccharides—curdlan and hydroxypropyl cellulose. Curdlan was modified with trimethylammonium groups, while the anionic derivative of hydroxypropyl cellulose was obtained by the introduction of styrenesulfonate groups. Thermally responsive nanoparticles of spherical shape and average hydrodynamic diameter in the range of 250–300 nm were spontaneously formed in water from the obtained ionic polysaccharides as a result of the coacervation process. Their morphology was visualized using SEM and AFM. The size and the surface charge of the obtained objects could be tailored by adjusting the polycation/polyanion ratio. Piroxicam (PIX) was effectively entrapped inside the nanoparticles. The release profile of the drug from the CPNs-PIX was found to be temperature-dependent in the range relevant for biomedical applications.

A comparison of the location in membranes of curcumin and curcumin-derived bivalent compounds with potential neuroprotective capacity for Alzheimer's disease

Curcumin and two bivalent compounds, namely 17MD and 21MO, both obtained by conjugation of curcumin with a steroid molecule that acts as a membrane anchor, were comparatively studied. When incorporated into 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine the compounds showed a very limited solubility in the model membranes. Curcumin and the two bivalent compounds were also incorporated in membranes of 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine and quenching the fluorescence of pure curcumin or of the curcumin moiety in the bivalent compounds by acrylamide it was seen that curcumin was accessible to this water soluble quencher but the molecule was somehow located in a hydrophobic environment. This was confirmed by quenching with doxyl-phosphatidylcholines, indicating that the curcumin moieties of 17MD and 21MO were in a more polar environment than pure curcumin itself. ¹H NOESY MAS-NMR analysis supports this notion by showing that the orientation of curcumin was parallel to the plane of the membrane surface close to C2 and C3 of the fatty acyl chains, while the curcumin moiety of 17MD and 21MO positioned close to the polar part of the membrane with the steroid moiety in the centre of the membrane. Molecular dynamics studies were in close agreement with the experimental results with respect to the likely proximity of the protons studied by NMR and show that 17MD and 21MO have a clear tendency to aggregate in a fluid membrane. The anchorage of the bivalent compounds to the membrane leaving the curcumin moiety near the polar part may be very important to facilitate the bioactivity of the curcumin moiety when used as anti-Alzheimer drugs.

Efficient Photodynamic Killing of Gram-Positive Bacteria by Synthetic Curcuminoids

In our previous study, we have demonstrated that curcumin can efficiently kill the anaerobic bacterium Propionibacterium acnes by irradiation with low-dose blue light. The curcuminoids present in natural plant turmeric mainly include curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin. However, only curcumin is commercially available. Eighteen different curcumin analogs, including demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin, were synthesized in this study. Their antibacterial activity against Gram-positive aerobic bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis was investigated using the photodynamic inactivation method. Among the three compounds in turmeric, curcumin activity is the weakest, and bisdemethoxycurcumin possesses the strongest activity. However, two synthetic compounds, (1E,6E)-1,7-bis(5-methylthiophen-2-yl)hepta-1,6-diene-3,5-dione and (1E,6E)-1,7-di(thiophen-2-yl)hepta-1,6-diene-3,5-dione, possess the best antibacterial activity among all compounds examined in this study. Their chemical stability is also better than that of bisdemethoxycurcumin, and thus has potential for future clinical applications.

Binding of warfarin differently affects the thermal behavior and chain packing of anionic, zwitterionic and cationic lipid membranes

Warfarin is a coumarin derivative drug widely used for its anticoagulant properties. The interaction of warfarin with fully hydrated lipid bilayers has been studied by combining differential scanning calorimetry, spectrophotometry, electron spin resonance of chain-labelled lipids and molecular docking. Bilayers formed by lipids with different chemico-physical properties were considered, namely dimyristoyl-phosphatidylcholine (DMPC), dimyristoyl-phosphatidylglycerol (DMPG), and dioleoyltrimethyl-ammoniumpropane (DOTAP). We observed in all cases the binding of warfarin in proximity of the surface of the bilayers, leading to a variety of distinct effects on key molecular properties of the membranes. The drug associates with the lipid bilayers in the deprotonated open chain form, with an association constant similar for DMPC and DMPG (1.27·10⁴ and 2.82·10⁴ M^-1, respectively) and lower for DOTAP (0.46·10⁴ M^-1). In DMPC bilayers, which are zwitterionic and with saturated symmetrical chains, warfarin at 10 mol% suppresses the pre-transition, slightly stabilizes the fluid state and reduces the cooperativity of the main transition. Moreover, it alters the lateral packing density of the chain segments close to the polar/apolar interface at any temperature through the gel phase. In anionic DMPG bilayers, the drug slightly perturbs the thermotropic phase behavior, and at 10 mol% markedly loosens the compact gel phase packing of the first chain segments. In cationic DOTAP bilayers, possessing unsaturated acyl chains, the drug induces a slightly higher degree of order and motional restriction in the outer hydrocarbon region in the frozen state. In all cases, as a surface adsorbed molecule, warfarin does not affect the segmental chain order and dynamics for temperatures in the fluid phase. The overall results provide an outline of the action of warfarin on membranes formed by lipids of different types.

Drug-loading capacity of polylactide-based micro- and nanoparticles - Experimental and molecular modeling study

Micro- and nanostructures prepared from biodegradable homopolymers and amphiphilic block copolymers (AmBCs) have found application as drug-delivery systems (DDSs). The ability to accumulate a drug is a very important parameter characterizing a given DDS. This work focuses on the impact of DDS size, the packing of polymer chains in the DDS, and drug - polymer matrix compatibility on the hydrophobic drug - loading capacity (DLC) of nano/microcarriers prepared from a biodegradable polymer or its copolymer. Using experimental measurements in combination with atomistic molecular dynamics simulations, an analysis of curcumin encapsulation in microspheres (MSs) from polylactide (PLA) homopolymer and nanoparticles (NPs) from PLA-block-poly(2-methacryloyloxyethylphosphorylcholine) AmBC was performed. The results show that curcumin has good affinity for the PLA matrix due to its hydrophobic nature. However, the DLC value is limited by the fact that curcumin only accumulates in the peripheral part of these structures. Such uneven drug distribution in the PLA matrix results from the non-homogeneous density of MSs (non-uniform packing of the polymer chains in the coil). The results also indicate that the MSs can retain a greater amount of hydrophobic drug compared to the NPs, which is associated with the formation of drug aggregates inside the PLA microparticles.

Innovative strategies to treat skin wounds with mangiferin: fabrication of transfersomes modified with glycols and mucin

Aim: The moisturizing properties of glycerol, the penetration enhancing capability of propylene glycol and the bioadhesive properties of mucin were combined to improve the carrier capabilities of transfersomes and the efficacy of mangiferin in the treatment of skin lesions. Materials & methods: Mangiferin was incorporated in transfersomes and glycoltransfersomes, which were also modified with mucin. The physico-chemical features were assessed, along with the efficacy against oxidative stress and skin wounds in vitro and in vivo. Results: Glycoltransfersomes promoted the deposition of mangiferin in epidermis and dermis, protected fibroblasts from oxidative stress and stimulated their proliferation. The wound healing and anti-inflammatory efficacy of glycoltransfersomes were confirmed in vivo. Conclusion: Results confirmed the potential of glycoltransfersomes in preventing/treating of skin lesions.

Effects of Curcumin on Lipid Membranes: an EPR Spin-label Study

Curcumin is a yellow–orange dye widely used as a spice, food coloring and food preservative. It also exhibits a broad range of therapeutic effects against different disorders such as cancer, diabetes, or neurodegenerative diseases. As a compound insoluble in water curcumin accumulates in cell membranes and due to this location it may indirectly lead to the observed effects by structurally altering the membrane environment. To exert strong structural effects on membrane curcumin needs to adopt a transbilayer orientation. However, there is no agreement in literature as to curcumin’s orientation and its structural effects on membranes. Here, we investigated the effects of curcumin on lipid order, lipid phase transition, and local polarity in a model liposome membranes made of DMPC or DSPC using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spin labeling technique. Curcumin affected lipid order at different depths within the membrane: it slightly increased the phospholipid polar headgroup mobility as monitored by spectral parameters of T-PC, while along the acyl chain the ordering effect was observed in terms of order parameter S. Also, rotational correlation times τ_2B and τ_2C of 16-PC in the membrane center were increased by curcumin. Polarity measurements performed in frozen suspensions of liposomes revealed enhancement of water penetration by curcumin in the membrane center (16-PC) and in the polar headgroup region (T-PC) while the intermediate positions along the acyl chain (5-PC and 10-PC) were not significantly affected. Curcumin at a lower concentration (5 mol%) shifted the temperature of the DMPC main phase transition to lower values and increased the transition width, and at a higher concentration (10 mol%) abolished the transition completely. The observed effects suggest that curcumin adopts a transbilayer orientation within the membrane and most probably form oligomers of two molecules, each of them spanning the opposite bilayer leaflets. The effects are also discussed in terms of curcumin’s protective activity and compared with those imposed on membranes by other natural dyes known for their protective role, namely polar carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin.

Simil-Microfluidic Nanotechnology in Manufacturing of Liposomes as Hydrophobic Antioxidants Skin Release Systems

Novel nanotechnologies represent the most attractive and innovative tools to date exploited by cosmetic companies to improve the effectiveness of their formulations. In this context, nanoliposomes have had a great impact in topical preparations and dermocosmetics, allowing the transcutaneous penetration and absorption of several active ingredients and improving the stability of sensitive molecules. Despite the recent boom of this class of delivery systems, their industrial production is still limited by the lack of easily scalable production techniques. In this work, nanoliposomes for the topical administration of vitamin D3, K2, E, and curcumin, molecules with high antioxidant and skin curative properties but unstable and poorly absorbable, were produced through a novel simil-microfluidic technique. The developed high-yield semi continuous method is proposed as an alternative to face the problems linked with low productive conventional methods in order to produce antioxidant formulations with improved features. The novel technique has allowed to obtain a massive production of stable antioxidant vesicles of an 84–145 nm size range, negatively charged, and characterized by high loads and encapsulation efficiencies. The obtained products as well as the developed high-performance technology make the achieved formulations very interesting for potential topical applications in the cosmetics/cosmeceutical field.

Liposome co-encapsulation as a strategy for the delivery of curcumin and resveratrol

Curcumin and resveratrol are natural compounds whose strong antioxidant activities are highly beneficial in the human diet. Unfortunately, their physicochemical properties result in poor stability in their chemical and antioxidant activities, which limits their utilization in food and pharmaceutical applications. In this study, liposomal nanoencapsulation was developed as a strategy to overcome these limitations and improve the antioxidant effects of these compounds. The physicochemical characteristics of co-encapsulated liposomes were evaluated and compared to formulations containing each compound individually. Liposomes co-encapsulating curcumin and resveratrol presented a lower particle size, lower polydispersity index and greater encapsulation efficiency. The formulation of liposomes co-loading curcumin and resveratrol at 5 : 1, exhibited the lowest particle size (77.50 nm), lowest polydispersity index (0.193), highest encapsulation efficiency (reaching 80.42 ± 2.12%), and strongest 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging, lipid peroxidation inhibition capacity and reducing power. Additionally, liposomes loading both curcumin and resveratrol displayed a higher ability during preparation, storage, heating and surfactant shock than those loaded with individual polyphenol. Infrared spectroscopic and fluorescence techniques demonstrated that the curcumin mainly located in the hydrophobic acyl-chain region of liposomes, while the resveratrol orientated to the polar head groups. These orientations could have synergistic effects on the stabilization of liposomes. Our findings should guide the rational design of a co-delivery liposomal system regarding the location and orientation of bioactive compounds inside the lipid bilayer.

Introducing Tween-curcumin niosomes: preparation, characterization and microenvironment study

In this work, we report unusual niosomes (non-ionic surfactant based vesicles), prepared using non-ionic surfactant Tween 80 (T80) as well as Tween 20 (T20) and curcumin. Conventional niosomes consist of non-ionic surfactant and cholesterol. We found that, despite being a probiotic, curcumin plays a similar role to cholesterol in the formation and stabilization of niosomes. The prepared Tween-curcumin niosomes were characterised using Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), zeta potential, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) techniques. The curcumin-induced micelle to vesicle transition in the Tween surfactants was investigated by DLS, zeta potential, fluorescence anisotropy, and fluorescence lifetime studies. At room temperature (298 K), the prepared niosomes were found to be stable; however, at a higher temperature (333 K), the niosomes degrade gradually and irreversibly to form micelles. The temperature-dependent vesicle to micelle degradation was monitored using fluorescence anisotropy, absorption, DLS and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) measurements. Further, the Tween-curcumin niosomes show a controlled release of curcumin, which could open up the possibility of multidrug therapy.

Highlighting Curcumin-Induced Crosstalk between Autophagy and Apoptosis as Supported by Its Specific Subcellular Localization

Curcumin, a major active component of turmeric (Curcuma longa, L.), is known to have various effects on both healthy and cancerous tissues. In vitro studies suggest that curcumin inhibits cancer cell growth by activating apoptosis, but the mechanism underlying the anticancer effect of curcumin is still unclear. Since there is a recent consensus about endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress being involved in the cytotoxicity of natural compounds, we have investigated using Image flow cytometry the mechanistic aspects of curcumin's destabilization of the ER, but also the status of the lysosomal compartment. Curcumin induces ER stress, thereby causing an unfolded protein response and calcium release, which destabilizes the mitochondrial compartment and induce apoptosis. These events are also associated with secondary lysosomal membrane permeabilization that occurs later together with an activation of caspase-8, mediated by cathepsins and calpains that ended in the disruption of mitochondrial homeostasis. These two pathways of different intensities and momentum converge towards an amplification of cell death. In the present study, curcumin-induced autophagy failed to rescue all cells that underwent type II cell death following initial autophagic processes. However, a small number of cells were rescued (successful autophagy) to give rise to a novel proliferation phase.

Improving the Stability of Liposomal Curcumin by Adjusting the Inner Aqueous Chamber pH of Liposomes

Curcumin (CURC) is a hydrophobic molecule and its water solubility can be greatly improved by liposome encapsulation. However, investigations on the stability of pH-sensitive molecules incorporated into liposomal membranes are limited. In this study, CURC-loaded liposomes with varied internal pH values (pH 2.5, 5.0, or 7.4) were prepared and designated as CURC-LP (pH 2.5), CURC-LP (pH 5.0), and CURC-LP (pH 7.4). Physical properties including particle size, ζ-potential, morphology, entrapment efficiency, and physical stabilities of these CURC-LPs were assessed. In addition, the chemical stability of liposomal CURC to different external physiological environments and internal microenvironmental pH levels were investigated. We found that among these CURC-LPs, CURU-LP (pH 2.5) has the highest entrapment efficiency (73.7%), the best physical stabilities, and the slowest release rate in vitro. Liposomal CURC remains more stable in an acid external environment. In the physiological environment, the chemical stability of liposomal CURC is microenvironmental pH-dependent. In conclusion, we prove that the stability of liposomal CURC is external physiological environment- and internal microenvironmental pH-dependent. These findings suggest that creating an acidic microenvironment in the internal chamber of liposomes is beneficial to the stability of liposomal CURC, as well as for other pH-sensitive molecules.

Nanoantioxidants: Recent Trends in Antioxidant Delivery Applications

Antioxidants interact with free radicals, terminating the adverse chain reactions and converting them to harmless products. Antioxidants thus minimize the oxidative stress and play a crucial role in the treatment of free radicals-induced diseases. However, the effectiveness of natural and/or synthetic antioxidants is limited due to their poor absorption, difficulties to cross the cell membranes, and degradation during delivery, hence contributing to their limited bioavailability. To address these issues, antioxidants covalently linked with nanoparticles, entrapped in nanogel, hollow particles, or encapsulated into nanoparticles of diverse origin have been used to provide better stability, gradual and sustained release, biocompatibility, and targeted delivery of the antioxidants with superior antioxidant profiles. This review aims to critically evaluate the recent scientific evaluations of nanoparticles as the antioxidant delivery vehicles, as well as their contribution in efficient and enhanced antioxidant activities.

Nanohydrogels Based on Self-Assembly of Cationic Pullulan and Anionic Dextran Derivatives for Efficient Delivery of Piroxicam

A cationic derivative of pullulan was obtained by grafting reaction and used together with dextran sulfate to form polysaccharide-based nanohydrogel cross-linked via electrostatic interactions between polyions. Due to the polycation-polyanion interactions nanohydrogel particles were formed instantly and spontaneously in water. The nanoparticles were colloidally stable and their size and surface charge could be controlled by the polycation/polyanion ratio. The morphology of the obtained particles was visualized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The resulting structures were spherical, with hydrodynamic diameters in the range of 100-150 nm. The binding constant (Ka) of a model drug, piroxicam, to the cationic pullulan (C-PUL) was determined by spectrophotometric measurements. The value of Ka was calculated according to the Benesi-Hildebrand equation to be (3.6 ± 0.2) × 103 M-1. After binding to cationic pullulan, piroxicam was effectively entrapped inside the nanohydrogel particles and released in a controlled way. The obtained system was efficiently taken up by cells and was shown to be biocompatible.

Deciphering the Peculiar Behavior of β-Lapachone in Lipid Monolayers and Bilayers

β-Lapachone (β-Lap) is a promising anticancer drug whose applications have been limited so far because of its poor solubility and stability. Its encapsulation in liposomes has been proposed to overcome these issues. However, surface pressure measurements show that β-Lap exhibits atypical interfacial behavior when mixed with lipids. Although the drug does not seem to be retained in lipid monolayers as deduced from the π-A isotherms, small changes in compressibility moduli suggest that β-Lap actually interacts with lipids, either disorganizing or rigidifying their monolayers. Thermal and structural analyses of lipid bilayers confirm the existence of β-Lap/lipid interactions and show that the drug inserts between hydrophobic chains, close to the polar headgroup in DPPC bilayers and deeper in the acyl chains in POPC bilayers. Molecular dynamics simulations allow a comprehensive description of the drug position and orientation in DOPC and POPC bilayers in the presence or absence of cholesterol.

Understanding Interactions of Curcumin with Lipid Bilayers: A Coarse-Grained Molecular Dynamics Study

The interactions of curcumin with various lipid bilayers (POPC, DOPC, oxidized POPC, and oxidized DOPC) and model biomembranes (symmetric bacteria and yeast plasma membranes, as well as asymmetric mammalian plasma membrane) are investigated. A nonlinear thinning effect of curcumin with respect to its concentration is demonstrated in PC membranes and in the yeast. Curcumin induces asymmetry to the symmetric yeast membranes but reduces the degree of asymmetry of the mammalian plasma membranes when the molecule is placed facing the outer leaflets. The molecule is found to diffuse through oxidized PC bilayers, POPC bilayers at a curcumin to lipid ratio C/L = 1/5, yeast membranes at C/L = 1/100, and the mammalian plasma membranes at C/L = 1/5 and when the molecule placed facing the outer leaflets. The results of this work demonstrate that the lipid type, the lipid distribution, and curcumin amount play a critical role in defining the interactions of curcumin with the lipids and their transport behavior through the bilayers.

Robust Microfluidic Technology and New Lipid Composition for Fabrication of Curcumin-Loaded Liposomes: Effect on the Anticancer Activity and Safety of Cisplatin

Curcumin exhibits potent anticancer activity via various mechanisms, but its in vivo efficacy has been hampered by poor solubility. Nanotechnology has been employed to deliver curcumin, but most of the reported systems suffered from low drug loading capacity and poor stability. Here, we report the development and optimization of a liposomal formulation for curcumin (Lipo-Cur) using an automated microfluidic technology. Lipo-Cur exhibited a mean diameter of 120 nm with a low polydispersity index (<0.2) and superior loading capacity (17 wt %) compared to other reported liposomal systems. Lipo-Cur increased the water solubility of curcumin by 700-fold, leading to 8-20-fold increased systemic exposure compared to the standard curcumin suspension formulation. When coadministered with cisplatin to tumor-bearing mice, Lipo-Cur augmented the antitumor efficacy of cisplatin in multiple mouse tumor models and decreased the nephrotoxicity. This is the first report demonstrating the dual effects of curcumin enabled by a nanoformulation in enhancing the efficacy and reducing the toxicity of a chemo-drug in animal models under a single and low dose administration.

Curcumin-primed exosomes potently ameliorate cognitive function in AD mice by inhibiting hyperphosphorylation of the Tau protein through the AKT/GSK-3β pathway

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the progressive development of fatal neurodegenerative diseases. Owing to the unclearness of the pathogenesis of AD and the failure of the drug to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), there is currently a lack of effective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in the treatment of AD. The aim of this study was to design exosomes (Exo) as a specifically designed carrier able to carry curcumin (cur) to prevent neuronal death in vitro and in vivo to alleviate the AD symptoms. Our results demonstrated that Exo improved the solubility and bioavailability of cur and increased drug penetration across the BBB by specific active targeting between Exo, inheriting the lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1 (LFA-1) and endothelial intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1). Exosomes derived from curcumin-treated (primed) cells (Exo-cur) can better prevent the death of neurons in vitro and in vivo to relieve the symptoms of AD by inhibiting phosphorylation of the Tau protein through activating the AKT/GSK-3β pathway. Our results suggested that Exo-cur featured highly effective BBB-crossing via receptor-mediated transcytosis to access brain tissues and inhibited Tau phosphorylation, holding great potential in improving targeted drug delivery and the recovery of neuronal function in AD therapy.