Multitargeting by curcumin as revealed by molecular interaction studies

Design and evaluation of curcumin-derived aldopentose compounds: Unlocking their antidiabetic potential through integrative in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies on carbohydrate-degrading enzymes

Natural polyphenol compounds such as curcumin can inhibit carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzymes, which may offer an alternative to expensive and potentially side-effect-inducing α-glucosidase inhibitors like acarbose. Hence, this study carried out the synthesis of curcumin aldopentose derivatives, examining their capacity to inhibit the α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes with the aim to alleviate hyperglycemia. Initially, the aldopentose derivatives from curcumin were synthesized and confirmed by spectroscopic methods such as MS, 13CNMR, 1HNMR, and FTIR. Afterward, we investigated the inhibitory effects of all derivatives on the α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes spectroscopically and determined their inhibition mechanism. We assessed the antioxidant activity and the stability of the synthetic derivatives in the simulated intestinal environment. Finally, we measured the postprandial blood glucose level after administering saturated starch in vivo. The modified compounds showed improved inhibitory effects compared to curcumin alone, with compound C3 demonstrating particularly strong enzyme inhibition. However, when compared with acarbose, a known commercial antidiabetic drug, the synthetic compounds showed lower inhibitory activity against both enzymes, resulting in fewer side effects related to undigested polysaccharides in the gut. Molecular docking studies show introducing a pentose moiety to the curcumin backbone enhanced docking affinities toward both enzymes and subsequently altered the associated IC50 and Ki values. Overall, compound C3 has the potential to be an inhibitor of carbohydrate-degrading enzymes and can effectively reduce glucose absorption in vivo. Given its antioxidant capabilities and reasonable stability, the compound in question shows promises as a potent derivative for the development of new anti-hyperglycemic drugs in future research endeavours.

Illuminating the dark: PEGylated carboxylated graphene quantum dots and curcumin in nucleolar activity and PDT-induced DNA damage in cancer

Many photosensitive substances suitable for photodynamic therapy (PDT) have limited applications due to their insufficient solubility in polar solvents. Our research overcomes this challenge by means of nanotechnology in order to transform hydrophobic compounds into stable aqueous solutions, enabling them to use their full potential and unique properties in cancer therapy. In this study, the novel nano-composite cGQDs-PEG-curcumin was developed to overcome the insolubility of curcumin in water and its extraordinary efficacy in PDT was evaluated. Complex characterization was performed using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), FTIR, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. Further analysis involved fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM), and its cellular localization was mapped with confocal microscopy. In order to evaluate PDT effectiveness, cells treated with cGQDs-PEG-curcumin were irradiated with 5 J/cm2 of 414 nm light. After irradiation, cell viability assay, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection, comet assay, and γH2AX-based DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) detection were assessed and revealed a remarkable ability of the nano-composite to induce DNA damage after irradiation without ROS production. Our findings highlight the potential of cGQDs-PEG-curcumin as a cutting-edge PDT agent, capable of disrupting cell membrane and nucleolar integrity and impairing ribosomal synthesis, which is crucial for proliferating tumour cells.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Curcumin on CAR T-Cell Therapy

Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has revolutionized the treatment of hematological malignancies, demonstrating high efficacy in targeting and eliminating cancer cells. However, its clinical application can be associated with the risk of acute adverse effects, including cytokine release syndrome (CRS), a severe inflammatory response caused by excessive cytokine production. While anti-cytokine therapies are available to manage CRS, additional strategies are needed to optimize CAR T-cell efficacy with reduced toxicities. Curcumin, a bioactive polyphenol known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, represents a promising adjunct for CAR T-cell therapy. In this study, we investigated the effects of curcumin on anti-CD19 CAR T-cells in vitro. Our results show that curcumin enhances the cytotoxic activity of CAR T-cells against Nalm-6, a B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia model, while reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-2 and IFN-γ. To explore its underlying mechanisms, network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses were performed, which revealed that curcumin interacts with key signaling pathways involved in T-cell activation and cytokine regulation. These findings support the potential of curcumin as a therapeutic adjunct to improve CAR T-cell efficacy while mitigating inflammatory toxicity.

Probing the biological efficacy and mechanistic pathways of natural compounds in breast cancer therapy via the Hedgehog signaling pathway

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most prevalent malignant tumors affecting women worldwide, with its incidence rate continuously increasing. As a result, treatment strategies for this disease have received considerable attention. Research has highlighted the crucial role of the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway in the initiation and progression of BC, particularly in promoting tumor growth and metastasis. Therefore, molecular targets within this pathway represent promising opportunities for the development of novel BC therapies. This study aims to elucidate the therapeutic mechanisms by which natural compounds modulate the Hh signaling pathway in BC. By conducting a comprehensive review of various natural compounds, including polyphenols, terpenes, and alkaloids, we reveal both common and unique regulatory mechanisms that influence this pathway. This investigation represents the first comprehensive analysis of five distinct mechanisms through which natural compounds modulate key molecules within the Hh pathway and their impact on the aggressive behaviors of BC. Furthermore, by exploring the structure-activity relationships between these compounds and their molecular targets, we shed light on the specific structural features that enable natural compounds to interact with various components of the Hh pathway. These novel insights contribute to advancing the development and clinical application of natural compound-based therapeutics. Our thorough review not only lays the groundwork for exploring innovative BC treatments but also opens new avenues for leveraging natural compounds in cancer therapy.

Combined effects of natural products and exercise on apoptosis pathways in obesity-related skeletal muscle dysfunction

Obesity and related metabolic disorders are closely linked to increased apoptosis in skeletal muscle, leading to muscle degeneration, insulin resistance, and the progression of diseases such as type 2 diabetes and sarcopenia. This review explores the combined effects of natural products, including resveratrol, curcumin, and quercetin, and physical exercise on modulating apoptosis pathways in skeletal muscle. Both natural products and regular physical activity independently reduce oxidative stress and improve mitochondrial function, thereby regulating the balance between pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic signals. When combined, these interventions amplify their protective effects on muscle health, promoting mitochondrial biogenesis, reducing apoptosis, and enhancing muscle regeneration. This review also discusses the molecular mechanisms by which these strategies influence apoptosis, with a focus on the Bcl-2 pathway, and explores the clinical implications for the prevention and treatment of obesity-related diseases. The synergistic benefits of combining exercise with natural product supplementation offer a promising therapeutic approach for managing metabolic disorders, preserving muscle function, and improving overall metabolic health.

Screening of Methylglyoxal Fluctuations in the Kidneys of Diabetic Nephropathy Mice Using a Europium(III) Complex-Based Dual-Mode Luminescence Probe

The global surge in diabetes mellitus (DM) and its associated complications has prompted significant efforts to mitigate this growing public health challenge. Among these complications, diabetic nephropathy (DN) is of particular concern due to its high rates of morbidity and mortality. Extensive research has identified methylglyoxal (MGO) and MGO-derived advanced glycation end products (AGEs) as critical contributors to the pathogenesis of DN. Thus, there is a pressing need for precise and effective methodologies for monitoring MGO levels in complicated biological systems. Herein, we report the first Eu3+ complex-based dual-mode luminescence probe, DAPTTA-Eu3+, for accurate MGO detection using time-gated luminescence (TGL) and luminescence lifetime measurements. The probe initially exists in a "dark state" characterized by a relatively short luminescence lifetime. Upon interaction with MGO, intense Eu3+ emission is restored, accompanied by a significant increase in luminescence lifetime. These features enable DAPTTA-Eu3+ to serve as a reliable luminescence probe for accurate MGO quantification, utilizing TGL and the luminescence lifetime as complementary detection strategies. Moreover, the cell membrane-permeable derivative of the probe, AM-DAPTTA-Eu3+, was prepared and used for TGL imaging of both exogenous and endogenous MGO in live cells, which also allowed the MGO fluctuations in the kidneys of DN mice and the nephroprotective effects of metformin against DN to be assessed. Notably, by exploiting the differential expressions of renal MGO, the DN and cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) were successfully distinguished. These results underscored the practicability of AM-DAPTTA-Eu3+ across varying kidney-related pathophysiological conditions, suggesting its high potential in clinical DN diagnosis.

Protective effect of curcumin-loaded zeolitic imidazolate framework-8-based pH-responsive drug delivery system against Staphylococcus aureus infection

Mastitis, generally caused by pathogenic microorganisms, is a serious disease in dairy farming. Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is one of the main pathogens that induces mastitis in dairy cows. It evades the innate and adaptive immune responses of dairy cows, causing recessive transmission and harming the health of the mammary glands. Antibiotics remain the primary treatment; however, their excessive use can lead to antimicrobial resistance. Therefore, it is necessary to develop new strategies to replace antibiotic therapies. The zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-8) is a metal-organic skeleton material with applications in biology and drug delivery. This study aimed to construct a novel nanodrug delivery system for S. aureus infection by combining ZIF-8 with curcumin (ZIF-8@CCM), which exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs) and mice were used to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and biotoxicity of the system, and to explore the protective mechanism of ZIF-8@CCM. The results showed that ZIF-8@CCM exhibited high drug loading capacity, stability, and pH responsiveness. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that ZIF-8@CCM effectively released encapsulated curcumin in response to the acidic microenvironment induced by bacterial infection, which in turn enhanced the bactericidal efficacy. It not only prevents biofilm formation, but also mitigates the toxic side effects associated with drug treatments, showing excellent bioavailability and biocompatibility. Furthermore, ZIF-8@CCM also attenuated S. aureus-induced inflammatory through suppressing the activation of TLR2-NF-κB pathway. Consequently, ZIF-8@CCM is an effective targeted antibacterial and anti-inflammatory drug, showing promise as a novel therapeutic agent for the clinical management of S. aureus-induced mastitis in dairy cows.

3D bioprinted poly(lactic acid) scaffolds infused with curcumin-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers: a promising approach for skin regeneration

Nanotechnology and 3D bioprinted scaffolds are revolutionizing the field of wound healing and skin regeneration. By facilitating proper cellular movement and providing a customizable structure that replicates the extracellular matrix, such technologies not only expedite the healing process but also ensure the seamless integration of new skin layers, enhancing tissue repair and promoting overall cell growth. This study centres on the creation and assessment of a nanostructured lipid carrier containing curcumin (CNLC), which is integrated into a 3D bioprinted PLA scaffold system. The goal is to investigate its potential as a vehicle for delivering poorly soluble curcumin for enhanced wound healing. The developed CNLC exhibited an oval morphology and average particle size of 292 nm. The entrapment efficiency (EE) was 81.37 ± 0.85%, and the drug loading capacity was 6.59 ± 1.61%. CNLC was then integrated into PLA-based 3D bioprinted scaffolds, and physicochemical analyses were conducted to evaluate their properties. Cell viability studies carried out using fibroblast cells demonstrated that the PLA/CNLC scaffolds are non-cytotoxic. In vivo experiments showed that the PLA/CNLC scaffolds exhibited complete wound contraction and closure of full-thickness wounds within a period of 21 days. The findings confirmed the scaffold's capacity as a tool for accelerating wound healing. The research emphasises the need for using biomimetic 3D printed scaffold materials and the promise of nanobiotechnology in enhancing treatment efficacy.

Antimicrobial Potential of Polyphenols: Mechanisms of Action and Microbial Responses-A Narrative Review

Polyphenols (PPs) are recognized as bioactive compounds and antimicrobial agents, playing a critical role in enhancing food safety, preservation, and extending shelf life. The antimicrobial effectiveness of PPs has different molecular and biological reasons, predominantly linked to their hydroxyl groups and electron delocalization, which interact with microbial cell membranes, proteins, and organelles. These interactions may reduce the efficiency of metabolic pathways, cause destructive damage to the cell membrane, or they may harm the proteins and nucleic acids of the foodborne bacteria. Moreover, PPs exhibit a distinctive ability to form complexes with metal ions, further amplifying their antimicrobial activity. This narrative review explores the complex and multifaceted interactions between PPs and foodborne pathogens, underlying the correlation of their chemical structures and mechanisms of action. Such insights shed light on the potential of PPs as innovative natural preservatives within food systems, presenting an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to synthetic additives.

Polyphenols as Wnt/β-catenin pathway modulators: A promising strategy in clinical neurodegeneration

Polyphenols, a diverse group of naturally occurring compounds found in plants, have garnered significant attention for their potential therapeutic properties in treating neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). The Wnt/β-catenin (WβC) signaling pathway, a crucial player in neurogenesis, neuronal survival, and synaptic plasticity, is involved in several cellular mechanisms related to NDs. Dysregulation of this pathway is a hallmark in the development of various NDs. This study explores multiple polyphenolic compounds, such as flavonoids, stilbenes, lignans, and phenolic acids, and their potential to protect the nervous system. It provides a comprehensive analysis of their effects on the WβC pathway, elucidating their modes of action. The study highlights the dual function of polyphenols in regulating and protecting the nervous system, providing reassurance about the research benefits. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the results obtained from both in vitro studies and in vivo research, shedding light on how these substances influence the various components of the pathway. The focus is mainly on the molecular mechanisms that allow polyphenols to reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptotic processes, ultimately improving the function and survival of neurons. This study aims to offer a thorough understanding of the potential of polyphenols in targeting the WβC signaling pathway, which could lead to the development of innovative therapeutic options for NDs.

Modulation of the ubiquitin-proteasome system by curcumin: Therapeutic implications in cancer

By the ubiquitin-proteasomes, cellular proteins are structurally degraded and turnover. Many essential functions and regulations of cells are regulated and controlled by these proteins. Recent studies indicated that many cancer types have been associated with aberrations in the ubiquitination pathway, which involves three enzymatic steps. Dietary phytochemicals have been identified as having the potential to inhibit carcinogenesis recently. As part of this group of phytochemicals, curcumin can play a crucial role in suppressing carcinogenesis by changing many reactions affected by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Due to its ability to change some biological processes such as NF-κB, inhibit some cyclins, and induce apoptosis, it can be used as a drug in cancer treatment.

Exploring the interaction of curcumin with β-cyclodextrin and its binding with DNA: A combined spectroscopic and molecular docking study

At present, a major effort in biophysical studies has been paid towards exploring the interactions and release of therapeutic payloads to the specific site leaving behind healthy cells unaffected and hence, lower the drug-induced toxicity. For the purpose, interaction of β-bound CUR with calf thymus DNA (ctDNA) has been examined intensely using a series of biophysical methods like absorption, steady state fluorescence emission, and circular dichroism together with molecular docking study. The experimental analysis divulge that CUR interacts with both β-CD (although with different molar ratio) and DNA. However, the binding affinity of CUR with the target (DNA) is higher than it does with the β-CD. When β-CD-carried (10 mM) CUR (μM) (inclusion complex) comes near DNA (15-372 μM), CUR gets out from β-CD's void and approaches to binds with the DNA. The relocation of the probe occurred due to competitive binding of the CUR between β-CD and the DNA. The present investigation may provide a simple yet probable route for the transfer of encapsulated therapeutic payload of β-CD to the most relevant biomolecular target DNA.

Monocarbonyl analogs of curcumin C66 and B2BrBC modulate oxidative stress, JNK activity, and pancreatic gene expression in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes

The pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) involves oxidative stress and inflammation. Curcumin, a natural polyphenolic compound found in turmeric, known to exhibit antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, is characterized by poor chemical stability, low bioavailability, and rapid metabolism. Monocarbonyl analogs of curcumin (MACs) with a structural absence of β-diketone and enhanced stability and bioavailability present a potential solution to the challenges associated with the use of curcumin. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two MACs, C66 and B2BrBC, on oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzyme activity, expression of diabetes-associated genes, and signaling pathway proteins in the context of T1DM. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced male Wistar rats or rat pancreatic RIN-m cells were used for in vivo and in vitro experiments, respectively. C66 or B2BrBC were given either before or after STZ treatment. Oxidative stress markers and antioxidant enzyme activities were determined in various tissues. Expression of diabetes-associated genes was assessed using RT-qPCR, and the activity of signaling pathway proteins in the pancreas was determined through Western blot analysis. Treatment with C66 and B2BrBC significantly reduced oxidative stress markers and positively influenced antioxidant enzyme activities. Moreover, both compounds inhibited JNK activity in the pancreas while enhancing the expression of genes crucial for β-cell survival and glucose and redox homeostasis. The findings highlight the multifaceted potential of C66 and B2BrBC in ameliorating oxidative stress, influencing gene expression patterns linked to diabetes, and modulating key signaling pathways in the pancreas. The findings suggest that these compounds can potentially address diabetes-related pathological processes.

Acute supplementation with a curcuminoid-based formulation fails to enhance resting or exercise-induced NRF2 activity in males and females

Purpose: Exercise and (poly)phenols may activate nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), a transcription factor that coordinates antioxidant synthesis. The purpose of this study was to determine whether curcuminoid supplementation augments resting and exercise-induced NRF2 activity. Methods: In a double-blinded, randomised, between-subjects design, 14 males and 12 females performed plyometric exercise (100 drop jumps, 50 squat jumps) following 4 d supplementation with a curcuminoid-based formulation (CUR + EX; n = 13; ∼200 mg d-1 curcuminoids) or a placebo (PLA + EX; n = 13). NRF2/DNA binding in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, plasma glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and plasma cytokines (interleukin-6 [IL-6], tumour necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α]) were measured pre-, post-, 1, 2 h post-exercise. Curcuminoid metabolites were measured 0, 1, 2 h post-administration of a single bolus. Results: Total area under the curve for total curcuminoid metabolites was greater in CUR + EX (p < 0.01), with bioavailability peaking at 2 h post administration (CUR + EX: [0 h] 80.9 ± 117 nM [1 h] 76.6 ± 178.5 nM [2 h] 301.1 ± 584.7 nM; PLA + EX: [0 h] 10.4 ± 1.6 [1 h] 8.5 ± 2.6 [2 h] 10.6 ± 2.1). NRF2 activity did not increase in PLA + EX (p = 0.78) or CUR + EX (p = 0.76); however, curcuminoid metabolite concentrations did positively predict NRF2/DNA binding (R2 = 0.39; p = 0.02). Exercise increased IL-6 (p = 0.03) but TNF-α was unresponsive (p = 0.97) and lower across PLA + EX (p = 0.03). GPX activity was higher in CUR + EX (p < 0.01) but not in PLA + EX (p = 0.94). Conclusion: Supplementation with a curcuminoid-based formulation failed to augment resting or exercise-induced NRF2/DNA binding; however, higher concentrations of curcuminoid metabolites predicted NRF2/DNA binding response, suggesting effects may be dependent on bioavailability.

Synthesis, theoretical analysis, and biological properties of a novel tridentate Schiff base palladium (II) complex

Schiff base complexes play a crucial role in bioinorganic chemistry. A novel curcumin/phenylalanine tridentate Schiff base ligand and its palladium (II) complex were synthesized so that they were stable in aqueous buffer. The structure of the complex was investigated using a variety of methods, including DFT, NBO analysis, FMOs, and MESP. The interaction of the complex with a plasmid (pUC19) and CT-DNA was studied. The anticancer, antibacterial, and antioxidant activities of the complex were examined. The statistical analysis of the MTT assay was compared using the 1-way ANOVA and Tukey test. Results showed that the complexes were stable in aqueous buffer, pH 8. The extrinsic fluorescence emission of the plasmid and CT-DNA was quenched while interacting with the complex. The complex had an IC50 of 72.47 µM against MCF-7 cells. The ANOVA and Tukey analysis of MTT data demonstrated a statistically significant difference between groups (P < 0.0001). The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of the complex for E. coli and S. aureus were 300 and 200 µg/mL, with 96.3 and 95.2% biofilm growth inhibition at 250 µg/mL, respectively. The sample concentrations contributing to 50% radical inhibition in the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) test for curcumin, ligand, and palladium (II) complex were 33.62, 21.27, and 51.26 µM, respectively. The results suggest that the complex interaction with DNA is one of the potential mechanisms for eliminating cancer cells and bacteria in the planktonic and biofilm. On the other hand, while stability in an aqueous buffer at pH 8 increases, the modified curcumin antioxidant effect decreases.

Novel curcumin-based analogues as potential VEGFR2 inhibitors with promising metallic loading nanoparticles: synthesis, biological evaluation, and molecular modelling investigation

VEGFR2 inhibition has been established as a therapeutic approach for managing cancer. A series of curcumin-based analogues were designed, synthesized, and screened for their anticancer activity against MCF-7 and HepG-2 cell lines and WISH normal cells. Compounds 4b, 4d, 4e, and 4f showed potent cytotoxicity against MCF-7 with IC50 values of 0.49, 0.14, 0.01, and 0.32 μM, respectively, compared to curcumin (IC50 = 13.8 μM) and sorafenib (IC50 = 2.13 μM). Interestingly, compound 4e, the most active compound, exhibited potent VEGFR2 inhibition with an IC50 value of 11.6 nM (96.5% inhibition) compared to sorafenib with an IC50 value of 30 nM (94.8% inhibition). Additionally, compound 4e significantly induced apoptotic cell death in MCF-7 cells by 41.1% compared to a control group (0.8%), halting cell division during the G2/M phase by 39.8% compared to the control (21.7%). Molecular docking-coupled dynamics simulations highlighted the bias of the VEGFR2 pocket towards compound 4e compared to other synthesized compounds. Predicting superior binding affinities and relevant interactions with the pocket's key residues recapitulated in vitro findings towards higher inhibition activity for compound 4e. Furthermore, compound 4e with adequate pharmacokinetic and drug-likeness profiles in terms of ADME and safety characteristics can serve as a promising clinical candidate for future lead optimization and development. Notably, 4e-Fe2O3-humic acid NPs exhibited potent cytotoxicity with IC50 values of 2.41 and 13.4 ng mL-1 against MCF-7 and HepG-2 cell lines, respectively. Hence, compound 4e and its Fe2O3-humic acid-NPs could be further developed as promising anti-breast cancer agents.

Ceria nanozyme coordination with curcumin for treatment of sepsis-induced cardiac injury by inhibiting ferroptosis and inflammation

INTRODUCTION

Sepsis-induced cardiac injury is the leading cause of death in patients. Recent studies have reported that reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated ferroptosis and macrophage-induced inflammation are the two main key roles in the process of cardiac injury. The combination of ferroptosis and inflammation inhibition is a feasible strategy in the treatment of sepsis-induced cardiac injury.

OBJECTIVES

In the present study, ceria nanozyme coordination with curcumin (CeCH) was designed by a self-assembled method with human serum albumin (HSA) to inhibit ferroptosis and inflammation of sepsis-induced cardiac injury.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The formed CeCH obtained the superoxide dismutase (SOD)-like and catalase (CAT)-like activities from ceria nanozyme to scavenge ROS, which showed a protective effect on cardiomyocytes in vitro. Furthermore, it also showed ferroptosis inhibition to reverse cell death from RSL3-induced cardiomyocytes, denoted from curcumin. Due to the combination therapy of ceria nanozyme and curcumin, the formed CeCH NPs could also promote M2 macrophage polarization to reduce inflammation in vitro. In the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sepsis model, the CeCH NPs could effectively inhibit ferroptosis, reverse inflammation, and reduce the release of pro-inflammatory factors, which markedly alleviated the myocardial injury and recover the cardiac function.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the simple self-assembled strategy with ceria nanozyme and curcumin showed a promising clinical application for sepsis-induced cardiac injury by inhibiting ferroptosis and inflammation.

Advances in relieving exercise fatigue for curcumin: Molecular targets, bioavailability, and potential mechanism

Intense and prolonged physical activity can lead to a decrease in muscle capacity, making it difficult to maintain the desired exercise intensity and resulting in exercise fatigue. The long-term effects of exercise fatigue can be very damaging to the body, so it is an urgent problem to be addressed. The intervention of foodborne active substances will be an effective measure. There is growing evidence that the molecular structure and function of curcumin have a positive effect on relieving fatigue. In this review, we summarize curcumin's molecular structure, which enables it to bind to a wealth of molecular targets, regulate signaling pathways, and thus alleviate exercise fatigue through a variety of mechanisms, including reducing oxidative stress, inhibiting inflammation, reducing metabolite accumulation, and regulating energy metabolism. The effects of curcumin on fatigue-related markers were analyzed from the perspective of animal models and human models and based on the bidirectional interaction between curcumin and intestinal microbiota: Intestinal microbiota can transform curcumin, and curcumin regulates gut microbiota through metabolic pathways, providing a new perspective for alleviating fatigue. This review contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the possible molecular mechanisms of curcumin in anti-fatigue and provides a new possibility for the development of functional foods in the future.

Glucuronidation dynamics of curcumin and tetrahydrocurcumin for differential structures and chemical reactivities in human liver microsome and uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase 2B7

THC is the main metabolite of curcumin with better bioactivity. This study aimed to explore the factors that cause differences in the bioactivity of curcumin and THC. We analyzed the metabolic activities of curcumin and THC and the factors responsible for the differences in their activities by glucuronidation activity assay, LC-MS, HPLC, homologous sequence comparisons, and molecular docking. Curcumin has higher metabolic activity than THC in HLM and UGT2B7, while the keto-enol isomers of curcumin and THC were distinctly different under different pH, and their structural transformations were hypothesized. Furthermore, UGT1A and UGT2B are differential sequences of curcumin and THC in UGTs. The binding sites and patterns of curcumin and THC in UGT2B7 are markedly different. In summary, the difference in keto-enolic interconversion isomerism between curcumin and THC is the main factor causing the difference in their activities, which provides a scientific basis for the development of curcumin.

Therapeutic potential of curcumin in autophagy modulation: Insights into the role of transcription factor EB

Transcription factor EB (TFEB) is a basic Helix-Loop-Helix/Leucine Zipper (bHLHZip) class of DNA-binding proteins, which can control the expression of genes included in the autophagy-lysosomal pathway. TFEB regulates the autophagic flux by enhancing lysosome biogenesis, forming autophagosomes, and fusion with lysosomes, thereby facilitating cellular clearance of pathogenic protein structures. Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic molecule with pharmacological properties that make it a potential therapeutic candidate for a wide range of diseases. One of the important curcumin mechanisms of action includes modulation of autophagy through affecting various signaling components such as TFEB. This review discusses in vitro and in vivo evidence on the effects of curcumin on autophagy process via modulating TFEB activity in different disorders.

Strain-Modulated Flexible Bio-Organic/Graphene/PET Sensors Based on DNA-Curcumin Biopolymer

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the development of metal-free, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective biopolymer-based piezoelectric strain sensors (bio-PSSs) for flexible applications. In this study, we have developed a bio-PSS based on pure deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and curcumin materials in a thin-film form and studied its strain-induced current-voltage characteristics based on piezoelectric phenomena. The bio-PSS exhibited flexibility under varying compressive and tensile loads. Notably, the sensor achieved a strain gauge factor of 407 at an applied compressive strain of -0.027%, which is 8.67 times greater than that of traditional metal strain gauges. Furthermore, the flexible bio-PSS demonstrated a rapid response under a compressive strain of -0.08%. Our findings suggest that the proposed flexible bio-PSS holds significant promise as a motion sensor, addressing the demand for environmentally safe, wearable, and flexible strain sensor applications.

Multifunctional Hydrogel Enhances Inflammatory Control, Antimicrobial Activity, and Oxygenation to Promote Healing in Infectious Wounds

Chronic infected wounds often fail to heal through normal repair mechanisms, and the persistent response of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammation is a major contributing factor to the difficulty in their healing. In this context, we developed an ROS-responsive injectable hydrogel. This hydrogel is composed of ε-polylysine grafted (EPL) with caffeic acid (CA) and hyaluronic acid (HA) grafted with phenylboronic acid (PBA). Before the gelation process, a mixture CaO2@Cur-PDA (CCP) consisting of calcium peroxide (CaO2) coated with polydopamine (PDA) and curcumin (Cur) is embedded into the hydrogel. Under the conditions of chronic refractory wound environments, the hydrogel gradually dissociates. HA mimics the function of the extracellular matrix, while the released caffeic acid-grafted ε-polylysine (CE) effectively eliminates bacteria in the wound vicinity. Additionally, released CA also clears ROS and influences macrophage polarization. Subsequently, CCP further decomposes, releasing Cur, which promotes angiogenesis. This multifunctional hydrogel accelerates the repair of diabetic skin wounds infected with Staphylococcus aureus in vivo and holds promise as a candidate dressing for the healing of chronic refractory wounds.

Potential of Curcumin in the Management of Skin Diseases

Curcumin is a polyphenolic molecule derived from the rhizoma of Curcuma longa L. This compound has been used for centuries due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. These make it ideal for preventing and treating skin inflammation, premature skin ageing, psoriasis, and acne. Additionally, it exhibits antiviral, antimutagenic, and antifungal effects. Curcumin provides protection against skin damage caused by prolonged exposure to UVB radiation. It reduces wound healing times and improves collagen deposition. Moreover, it increases fibroblast and vascular density in wounds. This review summarizes the available information on the therapeutic effect of curcumin in treating skin diseases. The results suggest that curcumin may be an inexpensive, well-tolerated, and effective agent for treating skin diseases. However, larger clinical trials are needed to confirm these observations due to limitations in its in vivo use, such as low bioavailability after oral administration and metabolism.

Plant protein-based edible films and the effect of phenolic additives

The use of protein-based films in food preservation has been investigated as an alternative to synthetic plastics in recent years. Being biodegradable, edible, natural, and upcycling from food waste/by-products are the benefits of protein-based edible films. Their use ensures food safety as an alternative to synthetic plastics, and their film-forming properties can be improved with the addition of bioactive compounds. This review summarizes the studies on the changes in certain quality parameters of plant protein-based films, including mechanical, physicochemical, or morphological properties with the use of different forms of phenolic additives (pure phenolics, phenolic extracts, essential oils) and their application in foods during storage. Phenolics affect protein film matrix formation by acting as plasticizers or cross-linking agents and confer additional health benefits by providing bioactive properties to protein films. On the other hand, the effects were more pronounced with the use of their oxidized forms or higher concentrations. Consequently, phenolic additives have great potential to improve protein films, but further studies are still required to investigate the effects and mechanisms of phenolic addition to the protein-based films.

Near infra-red absorbing Quinolizidine fused curcuminoid-BF2 chelate and its applications in photodynamic therapy using MCF-7 and A549 cells

Metal-free near-infrared absorbing photosensitizers (PS) have been considered promising candidates for photodynamic therapy. Curcumin, curcuminoid, and its derivatives have therapeutic values due to their anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiproliferative properties. Curcuminoid-BF2 chelates have also been studied as cell imaging probes, however, their applications in photodynamic therapy are rare. In this article, we describe the synthesis and therapeutic evaluation of quinolizidine fused curcuminoid-BF2 chelate (Quinolizidine CUR-BF2) containing an acid-sensitive group. This donor-acceptor-donor curcuminoid-BF2 derivative exhibits absorption and emission in the deep red region with an absorption band maximum of ∼647 nm and a weak emission band at approximately 713 nm. It is interesting to note that this derivative has a high molar extinction coefficient (164,655 M-1cm-1). Quinolizidine CUR-BF2 possesses intramolecular charge transfer properties, facilitating the production of singlet oxygen (1O2), which plays a crucial role in cell death. Additionally, Quinolizidine CUR-BF2 can enable the selective release of active ingredients in an acidic medium (pH 5). Furthermore, the nanoaggregates of PS were prepared by encapsulating Quinolizidine CUR-BF2 within Pluronic F127 block co-polymer for better water-dispersibility and enhanced cellular uptake. Dark cytotoxicity of nanoaggregates was found to be negligible, whereas they exhibited significant photoinduced cytotoxicity towards cancer cells (MCF-7 and A549) under irradiation of 635 nm light. Further, the cell death pathway using Quinolizidine CUR-BF2 nanoaggregates as PS is found to occur through apoptosis. Specifically, the present study deals with the successful preparation of Quinolizidine CUR-BF2 nanoaggregates for enhanced water-dispersibility and cellular uptake as well as the efficacy evaluation of developed nanoaggregates for photodynamic therapy.

Curcumin-loaded chitosan-based hydrogels accelerating S. aureus-infected wound healing

The damaged skin for some reasons is vulnerable to invasion by bacteria and other harmful microorganisms, leading to delay of the wound healing. In order to promote the infected wound healing, curcumin was loaded with chitosan-based hydrogel was formed through phenylborate ester bonding and its properties and effects on the S. aureus-infected wound healing was tested. It was found the hydrogel showed good antioxidation on the intracellular reactive oxygen species, inhibition on the growth of S. aureus, and acceleration the infected skin healing. The ablity of hydrogel due to its regulating inflammation, promoting angiogenesis and collagen synthesis in the wound site. This research work suggested that the developed multifunctional hydrogel might be a beneficial treatment for the infected wound healing.

Action of Curcumin on Glioblastoma Growth: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis of Animal Model Studies

Gliomas are aggressive brain tumors with poor prognosis even after surgical removal and radio-chemotherapy, stressing the urgency to find alternative therapies. Several preclinical studies evaluating the anticancer effect of curcumin in animal models of glioma are reported, but a systematic review with meta-analysis of these studies, considering the different experimental conditions used, has not been made up to this date. A search in different databases (Pubmed, Web of Science, Scopus, and SciELO) following the PRISMA statement was conducted during November 2023 to systematically identify articles assessing the effect of curcumin in murine xenograft models of glioma and identified 15 articles, which were subdivided into 24 studies. Tumor volume before and after treatment with curcumin or vehicle was extracted and the efficacy of curcumin was evaluated by performing a random effects meta-analysis of the data. Publication bias and the impact of different experimental conditions on curcumin efficacy were assessed. Treatment with curcumin decreased tumor volume. Comparing curcumin with control groups, the overall weighted standardized difference in means was -2.079 (95% CI: -2.816 to -1.341; p-value < 0.001). The curcumin effect was observed for different animal models, types of glioma cells, administration routes, and curcumin formulations. Publication bias was identified but does not invalidate curcumin's effectiveness. The findings suggest the potential therapeutic efficacy of curcumin against glioma.

Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Fermented Cabbage Extract Containing Nitric Oxide Metabolites with Silica

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of fermented cabbage extract (FC) containing nitric oxide metabolites with silica (FCS) on 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)-induced atopic dermatitis (AD) in BALB/c mice. Atopic dermatitis-like allergic contact dermatitis was induced by DNFB challenge in the ear after DNFB sensitization on the dorsal skin of mice. FCS alleviated the severity of atopic dermatitis-like skin lesions. In addition, epidermis thickness of the ear and penetration of inflammatory cells in atopic dermatitis-like skin lesions were decreased after topical application of FCS. The serum levels of TNF-α and IL-4 were measured in atopic dermatitis mice using ELISA kits, which were observed to be significantly decreased after topical application of FCS. This study demonstrates that the FCS can be used as a potential therapeutic for the treatment and prevention of AD.

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.

The Effects of Curcumin on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Expression in Neurodegenerative Disorders

Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a crucial molecule implicated in plastic modifications related to learning and memory. The expression of BDNF is highly regulated, which can lead to significant variability in BDNF levels in healthy subjects. Changes in BDNF expression might be associated with neuropsychiatric diseases, particularly in structures important for memory processes, including the hippocampus and parahippocampal areas. Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic compound that has great potential for the prevention and treatment of age-related disorders by regulating and activating the expression of neural protective proteins such as BDNF. This review discusses and analyzes the available scientific literature on the effects of curcumin on BDNF production and function in both in vitro and in vivo models of disease.

Germacrone: A Multi-targeting Sesquiterpene with Promising Anti-cancer and Chronic Disease Applications

BACKGROUND

Germacrone, a naturally occurring active compound found in essential oils extracted from medicinal plants within the Zingiberaceae family, has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic applications. Extensive research has highlighted its multi-targeting capabilities, positioning it as a promising treatment for various chronic diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular conditions, and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of germacrone as a scaffold for developing multi-targeting drugs with therapeutic potential against a range of chronic disorders. The study delves into the molecular mechanisms that underlie the therapeutic effects of germacrone and explores its potential targets, including NF-κB, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, p53, JAK/STAT, caspase, apoptosis, and autophagy induction.

METHODS

A systematic review of literature databases was conducted to gather relevant studies on germacrone and its therapeutic applications. The molecular mechanisms and potential targets of germacrone were examined to elucidate its multi-targeting capabilities.

RESULTS

Germacrone exhibits significant potential in the management of chronic diseases, with demonstrated effects on various cellular pathways. The review highlights its impact on NF-κB, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, p53, JAK/STAT, caspase, apoptosis, and autophagy induction, showcasing its versatility in targeting multiple pathways associated with chronic conditions. Germacrone has emerged as a promising candidate for the treatment of diverse chronic diseases. The understanding of its multi-targeting capabilities, coupled with its natural origin, positions it as a valuable scaffold for developing therapeutics.

CONCLUSION

The exploration of germacrone as a structural framework for multi-targeting drugs offers a potential avenue to enhance efficacy while minimizing potential side effects. Further research and clinical trials are warranted to validate the therapeutic potential of germacrone in diverse medical contexts.

MMP-Responsive Nanoparticle-Loaded, Injectable, Adhesive, Self-Healing Hydrogel Wound Dressing Based on Dynamic Covalent Bonds

Developing a multifunctional hydrogel wound dressing with good injectability, self-healing, tissue adhesion, biocompatibility, and fast skin wound healing efficiency remains challenging. In this work, an injectable adhesive dopamine-functionalized oxidized hyaluronic acid/carboxymethyl chitosan/collagen (AHADA/CCS/Col) hydrogel was constructed. The Schiff dynamic bond between AHADA and CCS, the N-Ag-N bond between CCS and Ag ions, and the S-Ag-S dynamic bond between sulfhydryl-modified collagen (ColSH) and Ag ions allowed the hydrogel to be both injectable and self-healing. Moreover, the aldehyde groups and catechol groups presented in the hydrogel could generate force with several groups on the tissue interface; therefore, the hydrogel also had good tissue adhesion. In vitro experiments proved that this hydrogel exhibited good biocompatibility and could promote cell proliferation. Additionally, curcumin (Cur)-loaded gelatin nanoparticles (Cur@Gel NPs) were prepared, which could respond to matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and controllably release Cur to hasten wound healing efficiency. Animal experiment results showed that this AHADA/CCS/Col hydrogel loaded with Cur@Gel NPs promoted wound repairing better, indicating its potential as a wound dressing.

Cabbage juice supplementation abrogates Lead acetate-induced haematological and haemorheological imbalances in male Wistar rat

Lead is a hazardous naturally found heavy metal that has been reported to induce haematological alterations. Whether cabbage, a commonly consumed vegetable rich in antioxidants and anticancer compounds, can mitigate these alterations remains unknown. This study investigated the protective effect of cabbage juice against Lead-induced haematological changes. Twenty (20) male Wistar rats were randomly selected into four groups (n = 5) and given distilled water (1 ml/100 g b.wt), Lead acetate (25 mg/kg b.wt), Cabbage juice (1 ml/100 g b.wt), and Lead acetate with Cabbage juice. All treatments were given orally for 28 days. Lead exposure induces normocytic normochromic anemia with substantial leukocytosis, lymphocytopenia, and hyperfibrinogenemia. Lead-intoxicated animals had significantly higher haemolysis and prolonged clotting times. However, cabbage juice reverses these adverse haematological and haemorheological changes induced by Lead acetate. Conclusively, cabbage juice demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombotic, and immunomodulatory properties, as well as the ability to protect the red blood cell membrane from damage caused by Lead-induced osmotic stress.

Curcumin-loaded albumin submicron particles with potential as a cancer therapy: an in vitro study

Curcumin (CUR), a polyphenolic compound, shows promising biological properties, particularly antioxidant activity. However, its medical applications are limited due to its low water solubility, bioavailability, and pH-instability. CUR-loaded albumin microparticles (CUR-HSA-MPs) of submicron size in the range of 800 to 900 nm and a zeta potential of -15 mV were prepared. The CUR loading efficiency was up to 65%. A maximum release of 37% of the encapsulated CUR was observed within 6 h when the CUR-HSA-MPs were dispersed in 50% ethanol in PBS at pH 7, while in RPMI 1640 medium the release was 7%. This demonstrates a sustainable release. The in vitro cytotoxicity of CUR-HSA-MPs showed promising anticancer potential against human hepatocellular carcinoma (Huh-7) and human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cell lines, although this effect was less pronounced in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFB) and human cholangiocyte (MMN) cell lines. Confocal microscopy was used to confirm the uptake of CUR-HSA-MPs by cancer cells. Our studies revealed that HSA-MPs are potentially promising vehicles for increasing the solubility and bioavailability of CUR.

Potential Role of Natural Antioxidants in Countering Reperfusion Injury in Acute Myocardial Infarction and Ischemic Stroke

Stroke and acute myocardial infarction are leading causes of mortality worldwide. The latter accounts for approximately 9 million deaths annually. In turn, ischemic stroke is a significant contributor to adult physical disability globally. While reperfusion is crucial for tissue recovery, it can paradoxically exacerbate damage through oxidative stress (OS), inflammation, and cell death. Therefore, it is imperative to explore diverse approaches aimed at minimizing ischemia/reperfusion injury to enhance clinical outcomes. OS primarily arises from an excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and/or decreased endogenous antioxidant potential. Natural antioxidant compounds can counteract the injury mechanisms linked to ROS. While promising preclinical results, based on monotherapies, account for protective effects against tissue injury by ROS, translating these models into human applications has yielded controversial evidence. However, since the wide spectrum of antioxidants having diverse chemical characteristics offers varied biological actions on cell signaling pathways, multitherapy has emerged as a valuable therapeutic resource. Moreover, the combination of antioxidants in multitherapy holds significant potential for synergistic effects. This study was designed with the aim of providing an updated overview of natural antioxidants suitable for preventing myocardial and cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injuries.

Synthesis, spectroscopic characterization, density functional theory study, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of curcumin and alanine-curcumin Schiff base

In this work, a novel Schiff-base derived from curcumin and L-Alanine was synthesized under microwave conditions in excellent yield. The structural characterization has been carried out from their elemental analyses, FTIR, UV-Vis and 13C-NMR and 1H-NMR spectral techniques. The Schiff base (Cur-Ala) and curcumin (Cur) have been screened for their antimicrobial activity toward some pathogens clinically important microorganisms: Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans. Result found that the Schiff base was more active than the curcumin. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of Cur-Ala can be attributed to its greatest dipole moment, as shown by theoretical calculations. Also, the antioxidant activity of Schiff base and curcumin were studied by DPPH, cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity and o-phenanthroline techniques. Results indicate that Cur-Ala and Cur show more antioxidant activities than the standard antioxidants (BHT and BHA). Quantum chemical parameter calculations of Cur-Ala and Cur have been investigated by DFT using B3LYP/6-31G (d,p) basis set method to calculate the optimized structure, atomic charges, MESP, global reactivity descriptors and thermomolecular proprieties of both molecules.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Advances of antitumor drug discovery in traditional Chinese medicine and natural active products by using multi-active components combination

The antitumor efficacy of Chinese herbal medicines has been widely recognized. Leading compounds such as sterols, glycosides, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, and polyketides constitute their complex active components. The antitumor monomers derived from Chinese medicine possess an attractive anticancer activity. However, their use was limited by low bioavailability, significant toxicity, and side effects, hindering their clinical applications. Recently, new chemical entities have been designed and synthesized by combining natural drugs with other small drug molecules or active moieties to improve the antitumor activity and selectivity, and reduce side effects. Such a novel conjugated drug that can interact with several vital biological targets in cells may have a more significant or synergistic anticancer activity than a single-molecule drug. In addition, antitumor conjugates could be obtained by combining pharmacophores containing two or more known drugs or leading compounds. Based on these studies, the new drug research and development could be greatly shortened. This study reviews the research progress of conjugates with antitumor activity based on Chinese herbal medicine. It is expected to serve as a valuable reference to antitumor drug research and clinical application of traditional Chinese medicine.

Molecular dynamics simulation and in vitro digestion to examine the impact of theaflavin on the digestibility and structural properties of myosin

In this study, the interaction mechanism between theaflavin and myosin was explored to confirm the potential application of theaflavin in the meat protein system. A series of theaflavin and myosin solutions were prepared for spectroscopic studies. Spectroscopy results showed that theaflavins formed complexes with myosin and affected the microenvironment of myosin. And that addition of theaflavin cause static quenching of the myosin solution. Theaflavin and bovine myosin combined through hydrophobic interaction to form a complex, and gradually increasing the temperature was conducive to the binding of theaflavin and bovine myosin. This interaction results in a decrease in the α -helix content of myosin. Molecular dynamics simulation results confirmed that hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds made the protein structure more compact and stable. And the in vitro digestion process was simulated. The results showed that the addition of theaflavin could significantly reduce the digestibility of myosin.

In Vitro and In Vivo Efficacy of Topical Dosage Forms Containing Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System Loaded with Curcumin

The external use of curcumin is rare, although it can be a valuable active ingredient in the treatment of certain inflammatory diseases. The aim of our experimental work was to formulate topical dosage forms containing curcumin for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Curcumin has extremely poor solubility and bioavailability, so we have tried to increase it with the usage of self-emulsifying drug delivery systems. Creams and gels were formulated using penetration-enhancing surfactants and gelling agents. The release of the drug from the vehicle and its penetration through the membrane were determined using a Franz diffusion cell. An MTT cytotoxicity and in vitro antioxidant assays were performed on HaCaT cell line. The in vivo anti-inflammatory effect of the preparations was tested by measuring rat paw edema. In addition, we examined the degree of inflammation induced by UV radiation after pretreatment with the cream and the gel on rats. For the gels containing SNEDDS, the highest penetration was measured after half an hour, while for the cream, it took one hour to reach the maximum concentration. The gel containing Pemulen TR-1 showed the highest drug release. It was determined that the curcumin-containing preparations can be safely applied on the skin and have antioxidant effects. The animal experiments have proven the effectiveness of curcumin-containing topical preparations.

Polysaccharides-based nanocarriers enhance the anti-inflammatory effect of curcumin

Curcumin (CUR) has been discovered to have many biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-oxygenation, anti-human immunodeficiency virus, anti-microbial and exhibits a good effect on the prevention and treatment of many diseases. However, the limited properties of CUR, including the poor solubility, bioavailability and instability caused by enzymes, light, metal irons, and oxygen, have compelled researchers to turn their attention to drug carrier application to overcome these drawbacks. Encapsulation may provide potential protective effects to the embedding materials and/or have a synergistic effect with them. Therefore, nanocarriers, especially polysaccharides-based nanocarriers, have been developed in many studies to enhance the anti-inflammatory capacity of CUR. Consequently, it's critical to review current advancements in the encapsulation of CUR using polysaccharides-based nanocarriers, as well as further study the potential mechanisms of action where polysaccharides-based CUR nanoparticles (the complex nanoparticles/Nano CUR-delivery systems) exhibit their anti-inflammatory effects. This work suggests that polysaccharides-based nanocarriers will be a thriving field in the treatment of inflammation and inflammation-related diseases.

Theracurmin Modulates Cardiac Inflammation in Experimental Model of Trypanosoma cruzi Infection

Theracurmin is a nanoparticle formulation derived from curcumin, a bioactive compound known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas disease, triggers an intense inflammatory response in mammals and also causes severe tissue damage. To evaluate the immunomodulatory and antiparasitic effects of Theracurmin, Swiss mice were experimentally infected with 10³ trypomastigote forms of the Colombian strain of T. cruzi and submitted to daily therapy with 30 mg/kg of Theracurmin. In addition, daily benznidazole therapy (100 mg/kg) was performed as a positive control. We evaluated the systemic and tissue parasitism, the survival and the body mass rate, the release of inflammatory mediators (TNF, IL-6, IL-15, CCL2 and creatine kinase) and the tissue inflammation at day 30 post-infection. Theracurmin therapy reduced the parasitemia curve without altering the animals' survival rate, and it protected mice from losing body mass. Theracurmin also reduced CCL2 in cardiac tissue, IL-15 in cardiac and skeletal tissue, and plasma CK. Even without effects on TNF and IL-6 production and tissue amastigote nests, Theracurmin reduced the leukocyte infiltrate in both evaluated tissues, even in the case of more effective results observed to the benznidazole treatment. Our data suggest Theracurmin has an immunomodulatory (CCL2, IL-15, CK and tissue leukocyte infiltration) and a trypanocidal effect (on circulating parasites) during experimental infection triggered by the Colombian strain of T. cruzi. Further investigations are necessary to comprehend the Theracurmin role performed in combination with benznidazole or other potential anti-T. cruzi chemical compounds.

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.

Role of Turmeric and Curcumin in Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases: Lessons Learned from Clinical Trials

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) has been used for thousands of years for the prevention and treatment of various chronic diseases. Curcumin is just one of >200 ingredients in turmeric. Almost 7000 scientific papers on turmeric and almost 20,000 on curcumin have been published in PubMed. Scientific reports based on cell culture or animal studies are often not reproducible in humans. Therefore, human clinical trials are the best indicators for the prevention and treatment of a disease using a given agent/drug. Herein, we conducted an extensive literature survey on PubMed and Scopus following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The keywords "turmeric and clinical trials" and "curcumin and clinical trials" were considered for data mining. A total of 148 references were found to be relevant for the key term "turmeric and clinical trials", of which 70 were common in both PubMed and Scopus, 44 were unique to PubMed, and 34 were unique to Scopus. Similarly, for the search term "curcumin and clinical trials", 440 references were found to be relevant, of which 70 were unique to PubMed, 110 were unique to Scopus, and 260 were common to both databases. These studies show that the golden spice has enormous health and medicinal benefits for humans. This Review will extract and summarize the lessons learned about turmeric and curcumin in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases based on clinical trials.

Cancer cell membrane camouflaging mesoporous nanoplatform interfering with cellular redox homeostasis to amplify photodynamic therapy on oral carcinoma

The efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) is still limited by the inefficient utilisation of generated ROS in tumours due to cellular redox homeostasis. To improve the therapeutic efficacy for oral carcinoma, biomimetic cell membrane-coated mesoporous nanoplatform was tailored to interfere with cellular redox homeostasis for amplified PDT. In this study, CAL-27 cancer cell membrane (CM) was encapsulated onto the mesoporous silica NPs (MSN), which were preloaded with Chlorin e6 (Ce6) and Curcumin (Cur). The biomimetic nanoparticles displayed a size of around 120 nm, which had excellent cytotoxicity under a laser and increased uptake ability to tumour cell. After internalised by cancer cells, the released Cur could effectively disturb ROS-defence system by suppressing TrxR activity, and decreasing TrxR-2 expression (p < 0.05), leading to enhanced cancer cell killing ability of PDT. The biomimetic system was found to selectively accumulate in the tumour due to its homologous targeting capability and inhibit tumour growth significantly. In a word, the biomimetic nanoplatform apparently enhanced the therapeutic effect of PDT on tumours by Cur disturbing the ROS-defence system, which exhibited a new way to enhance PDT.

Radioprotective effects of quercetin and curcumin on hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in male Albino rats.. [DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2727957/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

The present study aimed to assess the radioprotective effects of curcumin in combination with quercetin against radiation-induced changes in some histopathological, immunohistochemical, and biophysical parameters. The current study rats had been grouped into control, curcumin, quercetin, gamma irradiated (8 Gy fractionated dose), curcumin pretreated irradiated, quercetin pretreated irradiated, and both curcumin and quercetin pretreated irradiated groups. Gamma radiation exposure resulted in hepatic and renal damage. Administration of curcumin along with quercetin before gamma radiation exposure reduced the liver and kidney damage caused by radiation, demonstrating the radioprotective effects of both curcumin and quercetin antioxidants through free radicals scavenging effects, P53, and TNF-α inhibition, and structural changes measured by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR). The cellular damage by gamma radiation is greatly mitigated by administration of curcumin and quercetin before radiation exposure.

The Differential Antagonistic Ability of Curcumin against Cytotoxicity and Genotoxicity Induced by Distinct Heavy Metals

Widespread heavy metal pollution has aroused severe health risks worldwide. Curcumin has been reported to play a wide-spectrum protective role for various heavy metals. However, the specificity and difference in the antagonistic ability of curcumin against distinct types of heavy metals are still largely unknown. Here, using cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), and nickel (Ni) as the typical heavy metals, we systematically compared the detoxification efficiency of curcumin on the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity elicited by different heavy metals under the same experimental conditions. Curcumin was proved to have a significant discrepant antagonistic capacity when counteracting the adverse effect of different heavy metals. Stronger protective effects of curcumin emerged when antagonizing the toxicity of Cd and As, rather than Pb and Ni. Curcumin exhibits a better detoxification ability against heavy metal-induced genotoxicity than cytotoxicity. Mechanistically, inhibiting the oxidative stress elicited by heavy metals and reducing the bioaccumulation of metal ions both contributed to the detoxification of curcumin against all the tested heavy metals. Our results illustrated that curcumin shows prominent detoxification specificity against different types of heavy metals and toxic endpoints, which provides a new clue for the better and targeted application of curcumin in heavy metal detoxification.

A Review of the Role of Curcumin in Metal Induced Toxicity

Metal toxicity poses a potential global threat to the environment and living beings. Their numerous agricultural, medical, industrial, domestic, and technological applications result in widespread distribution in the environment which raises concern on the potential effects of metals in terms of health hazards and environmental pollution. Chelation therapy has been the preferred medical treatment for metal poisoning. The chelating agent bounds metal ions to form complex cyclic structures known as 'chelates' to intensify their excretion from the body. The main disadvantage of synthetic chelators is that the chelation process removes vital nutrients along with toxic metals. Natural compounds are widely available, economical, and have minimal adverse effects compared to classical chelators. Herbal preparations can bind to the metal, reduce its absorption in the intestines, and facilitate excretion from the body. Curcumin, a bioactive substance in turmeric, is widely used as a dietary supplement. Most studies have shown that curcumin protects against metal-induced lipid peroxidation and mitigates adverse effects on the antioxidant system. This review article provides an analysis to show that curcumin imparts promising metal toxicity-ameliorative effects that are related to its intrinsic antioxidant activity.

Is Curcumine Useful in the Treatment and Prevention of the Tendinopathy and Myotendinous Junction Injury? A Scoping Review

Physical activity in general and sports in particular, is a mechanism that produces stress and generates great force in the tendon and in the muscle-tendon unit, which increases the risk of injury (tendinopathies). Eccentric and repetitive contraction of the muscle precipitates persistent microtraumatism in the tendon unit. In the development of tendinopathies, the cellular process includes inflammation, apoptosis, vascular, and neuronal changes. Currently, treatments with oral supplements are frequently used. Curcumin seems to preserve, and even repair, damaged tendons. In this systematic review, we focus more especially on the benefits of curcumin. The biological actions of curcumin are diverse, but act around three systems: (a) inflammatory, (b) nuclear factor B (NF-κB) related apoptosis pathways, and (c) oxidative stress systems. A bibliographic search is conducted under the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) as a basis for reporting reliable systematic reviews to perform a Scoping review. After analysing the manuscripts, we can conclude that curcumin is a product that demonstrates a significant biological antialgic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant power. Therefore, supplementation has a positive effect on the inflammatory and regenerative response in tendinopathies. In addition, curcumin decreases and modulates the cell infiltration, activation, and maturation of leukocytes, as well as the production of pro-inflammatory mediators at the site of inflammation.

A Xanthan-Gum-Stabilized PEG-Conjugated Nanocurcumin Complex: Telescoping Synthesis for Enhanced Permeation Potential

We report a facile room temperature telescoping synthesis of a nanocurcumin complex with 17.5-fold permeation enhancement as determined by comparative in vitro permeation study with raw curcumin. The permeation results were further validated with in silico drug absorption prediction using ADMET predictors.

High Yield Synthesis of Curcumin and Symmetric Curcuminoids: A "Click" and "Unclick" Chemistry Approach

The worldwide known and employed spice of Asian origin, turmeric, receives significant attention due to its numerous purported medicinal properties. Herein, we report an optimized synthesis of curcumin and symmetric curcuminoids of aromatic (bisdemethoxycurcumin) and heterocyclic type, with yields going from good to excellent using the cyclic difluoro-boronate derivative of acetylacetone prepared by reaction of 2,4-pentanedione with boron trifluoride in THF (ca. 95%). The subsequent cleavage of the BF₂ group is of significant importance for achieving a high overall yield in this two-step procedure. Such cleavage occurs by treatment with hydrated alumina (Al₂O₃) or silica (SiO₂) oxides, thus allowing the target heptanoids obtained in high yields as an amorphous powder to be filtered off directly from the reaction media. Furthermore, crystallization instead of chromatographic procedures provides a straightforward purification step. The ease and efficiency with which the present methodology can be applied to synthesizing the title compounds earns the terms "click" and "unclick" applied to describe particularly straightforward, efficient reactions. Furthermore, the methodology offers a simple, versatile, fast, and economical synthetic alternative for the obtention of curcumin (85% yield), bis-demethoxycurcumin (78% yield), and the symmetrical heterocyclic curcuminoids (80-92% yield), in pure form and excellent yields.