Evaluating the dose-dependent effects of curcumin nano-micelles on rumen fermentation, nitrogen metabolism, and nutrient digestibility in heat-stressed fattening lambs: Implications for climate change and sustainable animal production

Global warming threatens livestock production, especially in hot climates. This study evaluated the dose-dependent impacts of dietary curcumin nano-micelles (CNM) on rumen fermentation, nitrogen metabolism, and nutrient digestibility in heat-stressed fattening lambs. Thirty-two crossbred male lambs [ˆIle-de-France × (Dalagh × Romanov)] were utilized within the current study. The initial weight of lambs was documented as averaged by 31.2 ± 1.55 kg, while they were in their 4th to 5th months of age. Animals were fed increasing doses of dietary CNM (0, 20, 40, and 80 mg/day) over 97 days, under severe heat stress conditions with average temperature-humidity index (THI) of 24.5. Quadratic improvements (p < 0.01) occurred in weight gain, average daily gain (ADG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) by 28.7%, 27.4%, and 23.9%, respectively, in the T40 group compared to the control. Additionally, T40 increased fiber digestion by 2.8% (p < 0.05). Furthermore, T40 quadratically improved parameters of rumen fermentation, including concentrations of NH3-N (p < 0.05), total volatile fatty acids (TVFA; p < 0.01), acetate (p < 0.05), and iso-valerate (p < 0.05), by 13.9%, 12.5%, 15.0%, and 43.5%, respectively, compared to the control. Quadratic increases were also observed in nitrogen balance (p < 0.05) and microbial protein synthesis (p < 0.01) by 19.8% and 37.6%, respectively, in the T40 group. Quadratic models estimated optimal CNM levels between 41.5 and 48.6 mg/day for multiple parameters. These findings indicate CNM at dose level of 40 mg/day could benefit heat-stressed lambs through enhanced rumen function and microbiota. Further research should refine ideal dosing for various species and production phases as higher levels adversely impacted fiber digestibility. Overall, CNM shows promise as a sustainable nutritional intervention for livestock production facing global warming.

Anticancer and Antibacterial Properties of Curcumin-Loaded Mannosylated Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for the Treatment of Lung Diseases

Lung cancer and Mycobacterium avium complex infection are lung diseases associated with high incidence and mortality rates. Most conventional anticancer drugs and antibiotics have certain limitations, including high drug resistance rates and adverse effects. Herein, we aimed to synthesize mannose surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) loaded with curcumin (Man-CUR SLN) for the effective treatment of lung disease. The synthesized Man-CUR SLNs were analyzed using various instrumental techniques for structural and physicochemical characterization. Loading curcumin into SLNs improved the encapsulation efficiency and drug release capacity, as demonstrated by high-performance liquid chromatography analysis. Furthermore, we characterized the anticancer effect of curcumin using the A549 lung cancer cell line. Cells treated with Man-CUR SLN exhibited an increased cellular uptake and cytotoxicity. Moreover, treatment with free CUR could more effectively reduce cancer migration than treatment with Man-CUR SLNs. Similarly, free curcumin elicited a stronger apoptosis-inducing effect than that of Man-CUR SLNs, as demonstrated by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR analysis. Finally, we examined the antibacterial effects of free curcumin and Man-CUR SLNs against Mycobacterium intracellulare (M.i.) and M.i.-infected macrophages, revealing that Man-CUR SLNs exerted the strongest antibacterial effect. Collectively, these findings indicate that mannose-receptor-targeted curcumin delivery using lipid nanoparticles could be effective in treating lung diseases. Accordingly, this drug delivery system can be used to target a variety of cancers and immune cells.

Multifaceted physiological and therapeutical impact of curcumin on hormone-related endocrine dysfunctions: A comprehensive review

Over the past five decades, Curcumin (Cur), derived from turmeric (Curcuma longa), has gained considerable attention for its potential therapeutic applications. Synthesizing insights from clinical trials conducted over the last 25 years, this review delves into diseases where Cur has demonstrated promise, offering a nuanced understanding of its pharmacokinetics, safety, and effectiveness. Focusing on specific examples, the impact of Cur on various human diseases is explored. Endocrine glands and associated signaling pathways are highlighted, elucidating how Cur influences cellular signaling. The article underscores molecular mechanisms such as hormone level alteration, receptor interaction, cytokine and adipokine expression inhibition, antioxidant enzyme activity, and modulation of transcription factors. Cur showcases diverse protective mechanisms against inflammation and oxidative damage by suppressing antiapoptotic genes and impeding tumor promotion. This comprehensive overview emphasizes the potential of Cur as a natural agent for countering aging and degenerative diseases, calling for further dedicated research in this realm.

Effects of curcumin supplementation on abdominal surgical wound healing

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effects of curcumin supplementation on abdominal surgical wound healing in rats using clinical, histological, and hematological parameters.

METHODS

Forty Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups: the curcumin group, and the control group. The curcumin group received, in addition to water and standard feed, curcumin via gavage at the dose of 200 mg/kg for seven days preceding and seven days following surgery. The control group received only water and standard feed. Both groups underwent median laparotomy and left colotomy. On the eighth postoperative day, the groups were euthanized, and the left colon was resected for histological analysis.

RESULTS

In the preoperative evaluation, there was a significant decrease in the mean C-reactive protein levels in the curcumin group (0.06) compared to the control group (0.112) (p = 0.0001). In the postoperative wound healing assessment, a significant decrease was observed in inflammatory infiltrate (p = 0.0006) and blood vessel count (p = 0.0002) in the curcumin group compared to the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Curcumin supplementation was able to significantly reduce inflammatory parameters in both pre-and post-operative phases of abdominal surgical wounds in rats.

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

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

Curcumin as a natural potential drug candidate against important zoonotic viruses and prions: A narrative review

Zoonotic diseases are major public health concerns and undeniable threats to human health. Among Zoonotic diseases, zoonotic viruses and prions are much more difficult to eradicate, as they result in higher infections and mortality rates. Several investigations have shown curcumin, the active ingredient of turmeric, to have wide spectrum properties such as anti-microbial, anti-vascular, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-neoplastic, anti-oxidant, and immune system modulator properties. In the present study, we performed a comprehensive review of existing in silico, in vitro, and in vivo evidence on the antiviral (54 important zoonotic viruses) and anti-prion properties of curcumin and curcuminoids in PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Database searches yielded 13,380 results, out of which 216 studies were eligible according to inclusion criteria. Of 216 studies, 135 (62.5%), 24 (11.1%), and 19 (8.8%) were conducted on the effect of curcumin and curcuminoids against SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A virus, and dengue virus, respectively. This review suggests curcumin and curcuminoids as promising therapeutic agents against a wide range of viral zoonoses by targeting different proteins and signaling pathways.

Curcumin mitigates ochratoxin A-induced oxidative stress and alters gene expression in broiler chicken liver and kidney

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of curcumin (CURC) supplementation on broiler chickens exposed to ochratoxin A (OTA), by examining biochemical parameters and the expression of glutathione redox system genes and their regulation. OTA reduced glutathione content in the liver while increasing glutathione peroxidase activity. CURC showed no significant effects. Kidney parameters remained mostly unaffected. Gene expression analysis revealed OTA-induced upregulation of KEAP1, NRF2, AHR, GPx4 and GSR genes in the liver. CURC supplementation led to the upregulation of GPx4 and AHR genes with OTA+CURC treatment, resulting in the downregulation of GPx4, KEAP1, NRF2 and AHR genes compared to OTA treatment alone. In the kidney, GPx4 was downregulated, and NRF2 and AHR were upregulated as an effect of OTA, while CURC upregulated the NRF2 gene only. OTA+CURC treatment led to the downregulation of GPx4, GSS and AHR genes compared to the control and downregulation of NRF2 and AHR genes compared to OTA. The results suggested that CURC is partly effective against OTA-induced oxidative stress and that the effect of OTA and CURC on the antioxidant response is regulated through the KEAP1-NRF2-ARE and AHR pathways.

Curcumin-Based Ionic Liquid Hydrogel for Topical Transdermal Delivery of Curcumin To Improve Its Therapeutic Effect on the Psoriasis Mouse Model

Psoriasis is a systemic, recurrent, chronic autoimmune skin disease. However, psoriasis drugs have poor skin permeability and high toxicity, resulting in low bioavailability and affecting their clinical application. In this study, we propose a curcumin-based ionic liquid hydrogel loaded with ilomastat (Cur-Car-IL@Ilo hydrogel), which can effectively maintain the sustained release of drugs and improve the skin permeability of drugs. We used a model of imiquimod-induced psoriasis and demonstrated that local application of Cur-Car-IL@Ilo hydrogel can improve skin lesions in mice with significantly reduced expression levels of inflammatory factors, matrix metalloproteinase 8, and collagen-I. The expressions of iron death-related proteins SLC7A11 and ASL4 were significantly decreased after treatment with Cur-Car-IL@Ilo hydrogel. Flora analysis showed that the content of anaerotruncus, proteus, and UCG-009 bacteria in the gut of psoriatic mice increased. The levels of paludicola, parabacteroides, prevotellaceae_UCG-001, escherichia-shigella, and aerococcus decreased, and the levels of some of the above bacteria tended to be normal after treatment. Therefore, the curcumin-based ionic liquid hydrogel can be used as a multifunctional, nonirritating, noninvasive, and highly effective percutaneous treatment of psoriasis.

Revolutionizing Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment: Innovative Self-Nano-Emulsifying Polyethylene Glycol Organogel of Curcumin for Effective Topical Delivery

In the current study, self-nano-emulsifying (SNE) physically cross-linked polyethylene glycol (PEG) organogel (SNE-POG) as an innovative hybrid system was fabricated for topical delivery of water-insoluble and unstable bioactive compound curcumin (CUR). Response surface methodology (RSM) based on Optimal Design was utilized to evaluate the formulation factors. Solid fiber mechanism with homogenization was used to prepare formulations. Pharmaceutical evaluation including rheological and texture analysis, their mathematical correlations besides physical and chemical stability experiments, DSC study, in vitro release, skin permeation behavior, and clinical evaluation were carried out to characterize and optimize the SNE-OGs. PEG 4000 as the main organogelator, Poloxamer 188 (Plx188) and Ethyl Cellulose (EC) as co-gelator/nanoemulsifier agents, and PEG 400 and glycerin as solvent/co-emulsifier agents could generate SNE-POGs in PS range of 356 to 1410 nm that indicated organic base percentage and PEG 4000 were the most detrimental variables. The optimized OG maintained CUR stable in room and accelerated temperatures and could release CUR sustainably up to 72 h achieving high flux of CUR through guinea pig skin. A double-blind clinical trial confirmed that pain scores, stiffness, and difficulty with physical function were remarkably diminished at the end of 8 weeks compared to the placebo (71.68% vs. 7.03%, 62.40% vs. 21.44%, and 45.54% vs. 8.66%, respectively) indicating very high efficiency of system for treating knee osteoarthritis. SNE-POGs show great potential as a new topical drug delivery system for water-insoluble and unstable drugs like CUR that could offer a safe and effective alternative to conventional topical drug delivery system.

Advancing Gastrointestinal Health: Curcumin's Efficacy and Nanopreparations

Curcumin (CCM) is a polyphenol compound extracted from the turmeric rhizome. It has various biological activities, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and antioxidant. Due to its diverse activities, it is often used by researchers to study the therapeutic effects on various diseases. However, its poor solubility leads to poor bioavailability, and it is necessary to increase the water solubility with the help of carriers to improve the therapeutic effect. Gastrointestinal disease is a major global health problem that continues to affect human health. In this review, we have summarized the possible mechanism and therapeutic effect of CCM in various gastrointestinal diseases, and the improvement in the curative effect of CCM with nanopreparation. Finally, we concluded that there have been many clinical trials of CCM in combination with other drugs for the treatment of gastrointestinal disease, but so far, few have used CCM nanomaterials for treatment. Although in vitro and preclinical experiments have shown that nanopreparations can improve the efficacy of CCM, there are still insufficient studies on the safety of carriers.

A novel front in sustainable microbial management: computational analysis of curcumin and mangiferin's synergistic action against Bacillus anthracis

Background

Microorganisms are crucial in our ecosystem, offering diverse functions and adaptability. The UNGA Science Summit has underscored the importance of understanding microbes in alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Bacillus anthracis poses significant challenges among various microorganisms due to its harmful effects on both soil and public health. Our study employed computational techniques to investigate the inhibitory effects of curcumin and mangiferin on Bacillus anthracis, with the aim of presenting a novel bio-based approach to microbial management.

Methods

Employing high-throughput screening, we identified potential binding sites on B. anthracis. Molecular docking revealed that curcumin and mangiferin, when synergistically combined, exhibited strong binding affinities at different sites on the bacterium. Our findings demonstrated a significant drop in binding free energy, indicating a stronger interaction when these compounds were used together.

Findings

Results of Molecular docking indicated binding energies of -8.45 kcal/mol for mangiferin, -7.68 kcal/mol for curcumin, and a notably higher binding energy of -19.47 kcal/mol for the combination of mangiferin and curcumin with CapD protein. Molecular dynamics simulations further validated these interactions, demonstrating increased stability and structural changes in the bacterium.

Conclusion

This study highlights the effectiveness of natural compounds like curcumin and mangiferin in microbial management, especially against challenging pathogens like B. anthracis. It emphasizes the potential of sustainable, nature-based solutions and calls for further empirical research to expand upon these findings.

The efficacy of curcumin in relieving osteoarthritis: A meta-analysis of meta-analyses

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most prevalent degenerative joint diseases. Several meta-analyses have shown that curcumin could improve the function of the knee and alleviate pain in OA, while some meta-analyses demonstrate controversial results. Hence, we assessed curcumin's effects on knee OA in an umbrella meta-analysis. PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases were employed to find English-language meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of curcumin supplementation on OA outcomes up to September 2023. The visual analog scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) pain, function, and stiffness scales were analyzed. Effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals were utilized to obtain the overall effect size. A random-effects model was applied to perform the meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was determined by I2 statistics and the Cochrane Q-test. The pooled effect of the 11 included meta-analyses showed that curcumin could significantly decrease the VAS score (weighted mean difference [WMD] and standardized mean difference [SMD]), WOMAC-total (SMD and WMD), WOMAC-Function (SMD and WMD), WOMAC-Pain (SMD), and WOMAC-Stiffness scores (SMD) (p ≤ 0.001, ≤0.001, ≤0.001, 0.007, ≤0.001, 0.002, ≤0.001, ≤0.001, respectively). The results strongly support curcuminoid supplementation in relieving pain, improving joint mobility and stiffness, and shortening medication usage of OA patients.

Curcumin-Piperlongumine Hybrid Molecule Increases Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in Lung Cancer through JNK/c-Jun Signaling Pathway

The instability of curcumin's structure and the toxic side effects of piperlongumine have limited their potential applications in cancer treatment. To overcome these challenges, we designed and synthesized a novel curcumin-piperlongumine hybrid molecule, 3-[(E)-4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylidene]-1-[(E)-3-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)acryloyl]piperidin-2-one (CP), using a molecular hybridization strategy. CP exhibited enhanced structural stability and safety compared with its parent compounds. Through in vitro and in vivo biological activity screenings, CP effectively inhibited cell proliferation, caused cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase, and induced apoptosis. Mechanistically, CP-induced apoptosis was partially mediated by cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, we discovered that CP induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis through the regulation of JNK signaling. These findings highlight the potential of CP as a promising therapeutic agent for lung cancer treatment.

Network pharmacology and molecular docking reveal the mechanisms of curcumin activity against esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Background: Curcumin (CUR), an effective traditional Chinese medicinal extract, displays good anti-cancer activity against various cancers. Nevertheless, the impacts and fundamental mechanisms of CUR to treat esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) yet to be comprehensively clarified. This study examined the suppressive impacts of CUR on ESCC. Methods: For a comprehensive understanding of the effect of CUR in ESCC. The CUR targets and ESCC-related genes were identified respectively, and the intersection targets between CUR and ESCC were acquired. Then, we examined the intersection targets and discovered genes that were expressed differently in ESCC. Using DAVID, enrichment analyses were conducted on the targets of CUR-ESCC. The STRING database and Cytoscape v.3.9.1 were utilized to build networks for protein-protein interaction (PPI) and drug-target-pathway. Furthermore, the interactions between CUR and its core targets were confirmed by molecular docking studies. To confirm the effects of CUR on ESCC cells, in vitro experiments were finally conducted. Results: Overall, 47 potential CUR targets for ESCC treatment were identified. The KEGG pathway enrichment analysis identified 61 signaling pathways, primarily associated with the FoxO signaling, the cell cycle, cellular senescence, the IL-17 signaling pathway which play important roles in ESCC progression. In the PPI network and the docking results identified CHEK1 and CDK6 as the core targets that positively associated with ESCC survival. CUR arrested ESCC cells at the G2/M and S phases, as shown by flow cytometry. Colony formation and CCK8 assays showed that CUR can inhibit the proliferative ability of ESCC cells. The Transwell invasion results validated that CUR can significantly inhibit the invasion rates of ESCC cells. Conclusion: Collectively, these findings indicate that CUR exhibits pharmacological effects on multiple targets and pathways in ESCC.

Inhibitory effect of natural compounds on quorum sensing system in Pseudomonas aeruginosa: a helpful promise for managing biofilm community

Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm is a community of bacteria that adhere to live or non-living surfaces and are encapsulated by an extracellular polymeric substance. Unlike individual planktonic cells, biofilms possess a notable inherent resistance to sanitizers and antibiotics. Overcoming this resistance is a substantial barrier in the medical and food industries. Hence, while antibiotics are ineffective in eradicating P. aeruginosa biofilm, scientists have explored alternate strategies, including the utilization of natural compounds as a novel treatment option. To this end, curcumin, carvacrol, thymol, eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, coumarin, catechin, terpinene-4-ol, linalool, pinene, linoleic acid, saponin, and geraniol are the major natural compounds extensively utilized for the management of the P. aeruginosa biofilm community. Noteworthy, the exact interaction of natural compounds and the biofilm of this bacterium is not elucidated yet; however, the interference with the quorum sensing system and the inhibition of autoinducer production in P. aeruginosa are the main possible mechanisms. Noteworthy, the use of different drug platforms can overcome some drawbacks of natural compounds, such as insolubility in water, limited oral bioavailability, fast metabolism, and degradation. Additionally, drug platforms can deliver different antibiofilm agents simultaneously, which enhances the antibiofilm potential of natural compounds. This article explores many facets of utilizing natural compounds to inhibit and eradicate P. aeruginosa biofilms. It also examines the techniques and protocols employed to enhance the effectiveness of these compounds.

Assessing the efficacy of curcumin-loaded alginate hydrogel on skin wound healing: A gene expression analysis

Skin tissue engineering has gained significant attention as a promising alternative to traditional treatments for skin injuries. In this study, we developed 3D hydrogel-based scaffolds, Alginate, incorporating different concentrations of Curcumin and evaluated their properties, including morphology, swelling behavior, weight loss, as well as hemo- and cytocompatibility. Furthermore, we investigated the therapeutic potential of Alginate hydrogel containing different amounts of Curcumin using an in vitro wound healing model. The prepared hydrogels exhibited remarkable characteristics, SEM showed that the pore size of hydrogels was 134.64 μm with interconnected pores, making it conducive for cellular infiltration and nutrient exchange. Moreover, hydrogels demonstrated excellent biodegradability, losing 63.5% of its weight over 14 days. In addition, the prepared hydrogels had a stable release of curcumin for 3 days. The results also show the hemocompatibility of prepared hydrogels and a low amount of blood clotting. To assess the efficacy of the developed hydrogels, 3T3 fibroblast growth was examined during various incubation times. The results indicated that the inclusion of Curcumin at a concentration of 0.1 mg/mL positively influenced cellular behavior. The animal study showed that Alginate hydrogel containing 0.1 mg/mL curcumin had high wound closure(more than 80%) after 14 days. In addition, it showed up-regulation of essential wound healing genes, including TGFβ1 and VEGF, promoting tissue repair and angiogenesis. Furthermore, the treated group exhibited down-regulation of MMP9 gene expression, indicating a reduction in matrix degradation and inflammation. The observed cellular responses and gene expression changes substantiate the therapeutic efficacy of prepared hydrogels. Consequently, our study showed the healing effect of alginate-based hydrogel containing Curcumin on skin injuries.

Curcumin encapsulated in milk small extracellular vesicles as a nanotherapeutic alternative in experimental chronic liver disease

Curcumin is a natural molecule widely tested in preclinical and clinical studies due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Nevertheless, its high hydrophobicity and low bioavailability limit in vivo applications. To overcome curcumin´s drawbacks, small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) have emerged as potential drug delivery systems due to their non-immunogenicity, nanometric size and amphiphilic composition. This work presents curcumin cargo into milk sEV structure and further in vitro and in vivo evaluation as a therapeutic nanoplatform. The encapsulation of curcumin into sEV was performed by two methodologies under physiological conditions: a passive incorporation and active cargo employing saponin. Loaded sEVs (sEVCurPas and sEVCurAc) were fully characterized by physicochemical techniques, confirming that neither methodology affects the morphology or size of the nanoparticles (sEV: 113.3±5.1 nm, sEVCurPas: 127.0±4.5 nm and sEVCurAc: 98.5±3.6 nm). Through the active approach with saponin (sEVCurAc), a three-fold higher cargo was obtained (433.5 µg/mL) in comparison with the passive approach (129.1 µg/mL). These sEVCurAc were further evaluated in vitro by metabolic activity assay (MTT), confocal microscopy, and flow cytometry, showing a higher cytotoxic effect in the tumoral cells RAW264.7 and HepG2 than in primary hepatocytes, specially at high doses of sEVCurAc (4%, 15% and 30% of viability). In vivo evaluation in an experimental model of liver fibrosis confirmed sEVCurAc therapeutic effects, leading to a significant decrease of serum markers of liver damage (ALT) (557 U/L to 338 U/L with sEVCurAc therapy) and a tendency towards decreased liver fibrogenesis and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition.

Study on synergistic effects of curcumin and bixin against foodborne pathogens

Various studies have shown that natural colorants, in addition to their coloring attributes, have valuable biological effects such as antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and anticarcinogenic properties. Moreover, their use as a food colorant can restrict the potential disadvantages of synthetic additives and turn foods into functional products. In this study, in vitro antimicrobial activities of two natural colorants of bixin and curcumin against some important foodborne pathogens: Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Listeria innocua (L. innocua), and Escherichia coli (E. coli) were investigated by disk diffusion method. Minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration values were determined by agar dilution and broth microdilution methods. The synergistic activity of the colorants against selected microorganisms was assayed by the checkerboard microdilution method. The results showed that the inhibitory effects of bixin against S. aureus were more pronounced than E. coli and L. innocua. The lowest concentration of curcumin (0.6 mg/mL) in the disk diffusion method was not inhibited by any tested bacteria. However, it was effective at the higher concentrations against three microorganisms, but its diameter of inhibition zones was lower than gentamicin in all concentrations. Synergetic effects were observed by curcumin and bixin combination against S. aureus (FICI ≤ 0.5), but they act as an antagonist against E. coli and L. innocua. The results of the synergy test were confirmed by the isobologram curves.

Curcumin inhibits propofol-induced autophagy of MN9D cells via Akt/mTOR/p70S6K signaling pathway

The rapid rise in propofol dependency and abuse has highlighted limited resources for addressing substance abuse-related cognitive impairment, prompting the development of novel therapies. Dysregulated autophagy flow accelerates neuronal cell death, and interventions countering this dysregulation offer an appealing strategy for neuronal protection. Curcumin, a potent natural polyphenol derived from turmeric rhizomes, is renowned for its robust antineurotoxic properties and enhanced cognitive function. Utilizing CCK-8 and Ki67 fluorescent staining, our study revealed that curcumin treatment increased cell viability and proliferative potential in MN9D cells exposed to propofol-induced neurotoxicity. Furthermore, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and western blot analysis demonstrated the partial restoration of dopamine synthesis, secretion levels, and TH expression in damaged MN9D cells treated with curcumin. Scanning electrode microscope images displayed reduced autolysosomes and phagosomes in curcumin-treated cells compared to the propofol group. Immunoblotting revealed that curcumin mitigated the degradation of LC3I to LC3II and p62 induced by propofol stimulation, with green fluorescence expression of LC3 postcurcumin treatment resembling that following autophagy inhibitor HCQ treatment, indicating that modulating autophagy flow can alleviate propofol's toxic effects. Moreover, curcumin treatment upregulated the Akt/mTOR/p70S6K signaling pathway, suggesting that curcumin potentially curtails autophagy dysregulation in nerve cells by activating Akt/mTOR/p70S6K. In conclusion, our findings suggest that curcumin can ameliorate propofol abuse-induced neurotoxicity, partially through autophagy regulation and Akt/mTOR/p70S6K signaling activation.

Curcumin-loaded pH-sensitive carboxymethyl chitosan nanoparticles for the treatment of liver cancer

In this study, the pH-responsive API-CMCS-SA (ACS) polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) based on 1-(3-amino-propyl) imidazole (API), stearic acid (SA), and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) were fabricated for the effective transport of curcumin (CUR) in liver cancer. CUR-ACS-NPs with various degrees of substitution (DS) were employed to prepare through ultrasonic dispersion method. The effect of different DS on NPs formation was discussed. The obtained CUR-ACS-NPs (DSSA=12.4%) had high encapsulation rate (more than 85%) and uniform particle size (186.2 ± 1.42 nm). The CUR-ACS-NPs showed better stability than the other groups. Drug release from the CUR-ACS-NPs was pH-dependent, and more than 90% or 65% of CUR was released in 48 h in weakly acid medium (pH 5.0 or 6.0, respectively). Additionally, the CUR-ACS-NPs increased the intracellular accumulation of CUR and demonstrated high anticancer effect on HepG2 cells compared with the other groups. CUR-ACS-NPs prolonged the retention time of the drug, and the area under the curve (AUC) increased significantly in vivo. The in vivo antitumor study further revealed that the CUR-ACS-NPs exhibited the capability of inhibiting tumor growth and lower systemic toxicity. Meanwhile, CUR, CUR-CS-NPs, and CUR-ACS-NPs could be detected in the evaluated organs, including tumor, liver, spleen, lung, heart, and kidney in distribution studies. Among them, CUR-ACS-NPs reached the maximum concentration at the tumor site, indicating the tumor-targeting properties. In short, the results suggested that CUR-ACS-NPs could act a prospective drug transport system for effective delivery of CUR in cancer treatment.

Immunoregulatory Effects of the Active Form of Vitamin D (Calcitriol), Individually and in Combination with Curcumin, on Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Patients

OBJECTIVES

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease affecting the central nervous system. Immune cell subsets, notably T helper (Th) 17 and Th1, exert important roles in MS pathogenesis. Whereas, Treg cells modulate the disease process. Calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, and curcumin, a bioactive compound derived from turmeric, play immunomodulatory effects relevant to autoimmune disorders, including MS. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of calcitriol and Curcumin on Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of individuals with MS.

METHODS

PBMCs from twenty MS patients were isolated, cultured, and exposed to 0.004 μg/mL of calcitriol and 10 μg/mL of curcumin. The cells underwent treatment with singular or combined doses of these components to assess potential cumulative or synergistic immunomod-ulatory effects. Following treatment, the expression levels of genes and the cellular population of Treg, Th1 and Th17 were evaluated using Real-time PCR and flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Treatment with curcumin and calcitriol led to a significant reduction in the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines and transcription factors related to Th1 and Th17 cells, includ-ing IFN-γ, T-bet, IL-17, and RORC. Furthermore, the frequency of these cells decreased follow-ing treatment. Additionally, curcumin and calcitriol treatment resulted in a significant upregu-lation of the FOXP3 gene expression and an increase in the frequency of Treg cells.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that curcumin and calcitriol can effectively modulate the inflammatory processes intrinsic to MS by mitigating the expression of inflammatory cytokines by Th1 and Th17 cells while concurrently enhancing the regulatory role of Treg cells. Moreover, the combined treatment of curcumin and calcitriol did not yield superior outcomes compared to single-dosing strategies.

An Integrated Arterial Remodeling Hydrogel for Preventing Restenosis After Angioplasty

The high incidence of restenosis after angioplasty has been the leading reason for the recurrence of coronary heart disease, substantially increasing the mortality risk for patients. However, current anti-stenosis drug-eluting stents face challenges due to their limited functions and long-term safety concerns, significantly compromising their therapeutic effect. Herein, a stent-free anti-stenosis drug coating (denoted as Cur-NO-Gel) based on a peptide hydrogel is proposed. This hydrogel is formed by assembling a nitric oxide (NO) donor-peptide conjugate as a hydrogelator and encapsulating curcumin (Cur) during the assembly process. Cur-NO-Gel has the capability to release NO upon β-galactosidase stimulation and gradually release Cur through hydrogel hydrolysis. The in vitro experiments confirmed that Cur-NO-Gel protects vascular endothelial cells against oxidative stress injury, inhibits cellular activation of vascular smooth muscle cells, and suppresses adventitial fibroblasts. Moreover, periadventitial administration of Cur-NO-Gel in the angioplasty model demonstrate its ability to inhibit vascular stenosis by promoting reendothelialization, suppressing neointima hyperplasia, and preventing constrictive remodeling. Therefore, the study provides proof of concept for designing a new generation of clinical drugs in angioplasty.

Turmeric Inhibits MDA-MB-231 Cancer Cell Proliferation, Altering miR-638-5p and Its Potential Targets

Objective

Recent research suggests curcumin extracted from the turmeric plant may inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells by controlling the expression of microRNAs (miRNAs). The effect of phenolic curcumin on miR-638-5p and potential target gene expressions in the triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell line MDA-MB-231 was investigated in this study.

Materials and Methods

GSE154255 and GSE40525 datasets were downloaded and analyzed using GEO2R to identify dysregulated miRNAs in TNBC. To find differently expressed genes in breast cancer (BRCA), The Cancer Genome Atlas Program data was examined. Utilizing in silico tools, KEGG, GO, and other enrichment analyses were performed. The databases miRNet, miRTarBase v8.0, and TarBase v.8 were used for miRNA and mRNA matching. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to examine the levels of miRNA and its targets in miRNA mimic transfected/curcumin-treated MDA-MB-231 cultures and controls. The cell viability detection kit-8 method was used to assess cell viability, and the scratch assay was used to conduct migration assessment.

Results

Bioinformatics analysis showed that miR-638-5p was significantly reduced in TNBC patients. Experimental results showed that miR-638-5p was upregulated in MDA-MB-231 treated with curcumin, while the potential target genes of miR-638-5p, CFL1, SIX4, MAZ, and CDH1 were downregulated. Mimic miR-638-5p transfection inhibited MDA-MB-231 cell proliferation and reduced migration and expression of CFL1, SIX4, and MAZ genes was decreased in mimic miR-638-5p transfected cells.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that curcumin exerts its anticancer effects on MDA-MB-231 cells by modulating the expression of miR-638-5p and its possible target genes.

Technological Interventions Enhancing Curcumin Bioavailability in Wound-Healing Therapeutics

Wound healing has been a challenge in the medical field. Tremendous research has been carried out to expedite wound healing by fabricating various formulations, some of which are now commercially available. However, owing to their natural source, people have been attracted to advanced formulations with herbal components. Among various herbs, curcumin has been the center of attraction from ancient times for its healing properties due to its multiple therapeutic effects, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, neuroprotective, and radioprotective properties. However, curcumin has a low water solubility and rapidly degrades into inactive metabolites, which limits its therapeutic efficacy. Henceforth, a carrier system is needed to carry curcumin, guard it against degradation, and keep its bioavailability and effectiveness. Different formulations with curcumin have been synthesized, and exist in the form of various synthetic and natural materials, including nanoparticles, hydrogels, scaffolds, films, fibers, and nanoemulgels, improving its bioavailability dramatically. This review discusses the advances in different types of curcumin-based formulations used in wound healing in recent times, concentrating on its mechanisms of action and discussing the updates on its application at several stages of the wound healing process. Impact statement Curcumin is a herbal compound extracted from turmeric root and has been used since time immemorial for its health benefits including wound healing. In clinical formulations, curcumin shows low bioavailability, which mainly stems from the way it is delivered in the body. Henceforth, a carrier system is needed to carry curcumin, guard it against degradation, while maintaining its bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. This review offers an overview of the advanced technological interventions through tissue engineering approaches to efficiently utilize curcumin in different types of wound healing applications.

Modifying cellulose fibres with carbon dots: a promising approach for the development of antimicrobial fibres

This study focuses on the development of antimicrobial fibres for use in medical and healthcare textile industries. Carbon dots (CDs) were designed with boronic acid groups for the attachment to cellulose fibres found in cotton textiles and to enhance their attachment to glycogens on bacterial surfaces. Boronic acid-based and curcumin-based CDs were prepared and characterized using various techniques, showing a nanoscale size and zeta potential values. The CDs inhibited the growth of both Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli bacteria, with UV-activated CDs demonstrating improved antibacterial activity. The antimicrobial activity of the CDs was then tested, revealing strong adherence to cellulose paper fibres with no CD diffusion and potent inhibition of bacterial growth. Cytotoxicity assays on human cell lines showed no toxicity towards cells at concentrations of up to 100 µg ml-1 but exhibited increased toxicity at concentrations exceeding 1000 µg ml-1. However, CD-modified cellulose paper fibres showed no toxicity against human cell lines, highlighting the antimicrobial properties of the CD-modified cellulose fibres are safe for human use. These findings show promising potential for applications in both industrial and clinical settings.

Application of Pistacia atlantica Pickering emulsion-filled chitosan gel for targeted delivery of curcumin

Emulsion-filled hydrogels are a growing system in the food industry for delivering bioactive compounds. In this study, Baneh gum (BG) particles were prepared as a Pickering emulsion stabilizer for curcumin delivery. Then, BG Pickering emulsion was added to the chitosan solution (1.5%, 2.0%, and 2.5% w/w) in different Pickering emulsion (PE):hydrogel (HYD) ratios (1:3, 1:5, and 1:7) to create an emulsion-filled gel. The highest amount of Cur stability after the 3rd week of storage was observed in the sample containing 2.0% CS and a 1:7 PE:HYD ratio (97.36%). Pickering emulsion and emulsion-filled gel significantly protected the antioxidant activity of curcumin against the thermal process (p < .05). Curcumin loading in the emulsion-filled gel provided better protection against the gastric condition compared to the emulsion system. The chitosan hydrogel swells in an acidic environment, but its combination with the anionic structure of the emulsion causes a lower release of curcumin in the stomach environment, which can help the stability of curcumin in the digestive system and have a controlled release in the gastrointestinal tract.

Effects of Lonicerae flos and Turmeric extracts on growth performance and intestinal health of yellow-feathered broilers

This experiment aimed to investigate the effect of Lonicerae flos and Turmeric extracts (LTE) added to diets on growth performance and intestinal health of broilers. A total of 720 healthy 21-day-old yellow-feathered broilers were randomly divided into 3 treatment groups, with 6 replicates and 40 broilers per replicate. These 3 dietary treatments included a basal diet + 0 g/t LTE (CON), a basal diet + 300 g/t LTE (LTE300), and a basal diet + 500 g/t LTE (LTE500). The results showed that dietary supplementation of LTE linearly increased (P < 0.05) average daily gain (d 21-38) and average daily feed intake (d 21-60). At d 60, LTE300 had the highest serum total antioxidant capacity and total superoxide dismutase (P < 0.05), and LTE500 had the lowest malondialdehyde level (P < 0.05) among the three groups. Moreover, compared to CON, LTE300 significantly (P < 0.05) reduced endotoxin (d 38 and d 60) and diamine oxidase activity (d 38); LTE500 significantly (P < 0.05) reduced endotoxin (d 38 and d 60) and diamine oxidase levels (d 60) in the serum. LTE groups significantly (P < 0.05) increased ileal the ratio of villus height to crypt depth and serum immunoglobulin G. Furthermore, dietary supplementation of LTE also improved the intestinal epithelial barrier by the up-regulated mRNA expression of Claudin-1, Occludin and zonula occludens-1, and decreased the mRNA expression of interleukin-2, interleukin-8, tumor necrosis factor-α, nuclear factor κB, myeloid differentiation factor 88 and toll-like receptor 4. Compared to CON, 16S rRNA sequencing analysis showed that LTE300 had a better effect on the microbial diversity and composition in the ileum, and Bacillus and Lactobacillus_agilis were significantly enriched in LTE300. PICRUSt results showed that LTE300 was significantly (P < 0.05) enriched in four pathway pathways at KEGG level 2. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with LTE improved growth performance and intestinal health by enhancing antioxidant capacity, intestinal barrier and immune function, and regulating intestinal flora of yellow-feathered broilers.

In-Vitro and in-Vivo Evaluation of the Developed Curcumin-Cyclosporine-Loaded Nanoemulgel for the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis

BACKGROUND

Topical nanogel-based formulations have shown potential in the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The aim of this research work was to explore the synergistic effect of Curcumin (CUR) and Cyclosporine (CYC) in combination via a topical route for the management of RA.

METHODS

The CUR+CYC loaded nanoemulsion was developed using the spontaneous emulsification technique and was subsequently incorporated into Carbopol® Ultrez 30-NF gel. The effect of the developed formulation on levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) was evaluated using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced RAW 264.7 cell culture model. The anti-arthritic activity was evaluated in a Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) induced arthritic rat model.

RESULTS

The optimized nanoemulgel (CUR + CYC NE gel) exhibited average globule size of 15.32 nm ±2.7 nm, poly-dispersity index of 0.181 ± 0.034 and zeta potential of -16.3 mV ± 0.9 mV. The cumulative drug release from ex-vivo diffusion studies on porcine ear skin was 99.189% ± 1.419% at the of 24 h and 99.177% ± 1.234% at the end of 18 h for CUR and CYC, respectively. The cell culture studies revealed that the formulation was able to significantly lower (p < .001) the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α, inhibited prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) while significantly elevating (p < .001) the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10). The gel was found to be non-irritating and showed the inhibition of paw edema and substantial reduction of arthritic symptoms in an arthritic rat model as compared to commercial and other conventional alternatives.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the potential of the developed nanoemulgel for the management of RA by enhancing the topical permeation of CUR and CYC.

Induction of ferroptosis by natural phenols: A promising strategy for cancer therapy

In recent years, heightened interest surrounds the exploration of natural phenols as potential agents for cancer therapy, specifically by inducing ferroptosis, a unique form of regulated cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. This review delves into the roles of key natural phenols, flavonoids, phenolic acids, curcumin, and stilbenes, in modulating ferroptosis and their underlying mechanisms. Emphasizing the significance of amino acid, lipid, and iron metabolism, the study elucidates the diverse pathways through which these phenols regulate ferroptosis. Notably, curcumin, a well-known polyphenol, exhibits multifaceted interactions with cellular components involved in ferroptosis regulation, providing a distinctive therapeutic avenue. Stilbenes, another phenolic class, demonstrate promising potential in influencing lipid metabolism and iron-dependent processes, contributing to ferroptotic cell death. Understanding the intricate interplay between these natural phenols and ferroptosis not only illuminates complex cellular regulatory networks but also unveils potential avenues for novel cancer therapies. Exploring these compounds as inducers of ferroptosis presents a promising strategy for targeted cancer treatment, capitalizing on the delicate balance between cellular metabolism and regulated cell death mechanisms. This article synthesizes current knowledge, aiming to stimulate further research into the therapeutic potential of natural phenols in the context of ferroptosis-mediated cancer therapy.

Co-encapsulation of curcumin and anthocyanins in bovine serum album-fucoidan nanocomplex with a two-step pH-driven method

BACKGROUND

Curcumin (CUR) and anthocyanins (ACN) are recommended due to their bioactivities. However, their nutritional values and health benefits are limited by their low oral bioavailability. The incorporation of bioactive substances into polysaccharide-protein composite nanoparticles is an effective way to enhance their bioavailability. Accordingly, this study explored the fabrication of bovine serum albumin (BSA)-fucoidan (FUC) hybrid nanoparticles using a two-step pH-driven method for the delivery of CUR and ACN.

RESULTS

Under a 1:1 weight ratio of BSA to FUC, the point of zero charge moved from pH ⁓ 4.7 for BSA to around 2.5 for FUC-coated BSA, and the formation of BSA-FUC nanocomplex was pH-dependent by showing the maximum CUR emission wavelength shifting from 546 nm (CUR-loaded BSA-FUC at pH 4.7) and 544 nm (CUR/ACN-loaded BSA-FUC nanoparticles at pH 4.7) to 540 nm (CUR-loaded BSA-FUC at pH 6.0) and 539 nm (CUR/ACN-loaded BSA-FUC nanoparticles at pH 6.0). Elevated concentrations of NaCl from 0 to 2.5 mol L-1 caused particle size increase from about 250 to about 800 nm, but showing no effect on the encapsulation efficiency of CUR. The CUR and ACN entrapped, respectively, in the inner and outer regions of the BSA-FUC nanocomplex were released at different rates. After incubation for 10 h, more than 80% of ACN was released, while less than 25% of CUR diffused into the receiving medium, which fitted well to Logistic and Weibull models.

CONCLUSION

In summary, the BSA-FUC nanocomposites produced by a two-step pH-driven method could be used for the co-delivery of hydrophilic and hydrophobic nutraceuticals. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Protective Effects of Curcumin and Nanomicelle Curcumin on Chlorpyrifos-induced Oxidative Damage and Inflammation in the Uterus, Ovary and Brain of Rats

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Chlorpyrifos (CPF), which is classified as an Organophosphorus Pesticide (OP), has been identified as a toxic agent for the reproductive system due to its capacity to induce oxidative stress and inflammation. Curcumin (CUR) has been reported as a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that could combat toxicity in various tissues. This study aims to examine the protective effects of CUR and its nanoformulation against reproductive impairment induced by CPF.

METHOD

Forty-eight female Wistar albino rats were randomly allocated to six groups (n=8): control (0.5 mL of corn oil, the solvent for CPF), CPF (10 mg/kg), CPF + CUR 100 mg/kg/day, CPF + CUR 300 mg/kg/day, CPF + nano-micelle curcumin (NMC) 2.5 mg/kg/day, and CPF + NMC 5 mg/kg/day. The experimental treatment was performed for 30 days. Then, brain, ovary and uterus tissues were collected for measuring oxidative stress and inflammatory indices.

RESULT

MDA, NO, IL-6, and TNF-α concentrations significantly increased in the brain, ovary and uterus of the CPF group versus the control group (p < 0.001). The levels of GSH and SOD in the uterus, ovaries, and brain exhibited a significant decrease in the CPF group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). However, CUR (300 mg/kg) and NMC (5 mg/kg) significantly decreased MDA, NO, TNF-α, and Il-6 and increased SOD and GSH levels in the uterus, ovaries and brain of the CPF-exposed animals versus the CPF-exposed non-treated animals (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicated that CUR and NMC could be effective in alleviating CPFinduced reproductive toxicity.

The Tumor Microenvironment Mediates the HIF-1α/PD-L1 Pathway to Promote Immune Escape in Colorectal Cancer

The unsatisfactory efficacy of immunotherapy for colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major challenge for clinicians and patients. The tumor microenvironment may promote CRC progression by upregulating the expression of hypoxia-inducing factor (HIF) and PD-L1. Therefore, this study explored the expression and correlation of HIF-1α and PD-L1 in the CRC microenvironment. The expression and correlation of HIF-1α and PD-L1 in CRC were analyzed using bioinformatics and Western blotting (WB). The hypoxia and inflammation of the CRC microenvironment were established in the CT26 cell line. CT26 cells were stimulated with two hypoxia mimics, CoCl2 and DFO, which were used to induce the hypoxic environment. Western blotting was used to assess the expression and correlation of HIF-1α and PD-L1 in the hypoxic environment.LPS stimulated CT26 cells to induce the inflammatory environment. WB and bioinformatics were used to assess the expression and correlation of TLR4, HIF-1α, and PD-L1 in the inflammatory environment. Furthermore, the impact of curcumin on the inflammatory environment established by LPS-stimulated CT26 cells was demonstrated through MTT, Transwell, molecular docking, network pharmacology and Western blotting assays. In this study, we found that the HIF-1α/PD-L1 pathway was activated in the hypoxic and inflammatory environment and promoted immune escape in CRC. Meanwhile, curcumin suppressed tumor immune escape by inhibiting the TLR4/HIF-1α/PD-L1 pathway in the inflammatory environment of CRC. These results suggest that combination therapy based on the HIF-1α/PD-L1 pathway can be a promising therapeutic option and that curcumin can be used as a potent immunomodulatory agent in clinical practice.

Curcumin and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids as bioactive food components with synergistic effects on Alzheimer's disease

Curcumin and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFA) are multifunctional compounds which play an important role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and little has been addressed about the role of these two compounds together in the progression of the disease. There is evidence of the beneficial effect of combined administration of ω-3 PUFA and other dietary supplements such as vitamins and polyphenols in the prevention of AD, although much remains to be understood about their possible complementary or synergistic activity. Therefore, the objective of this work is to review the research focused on studying the effect and mechanisms of action of curcumin, ω-3 PUFA, and the combination of these nutraceutical compounds, particularly on AD, and to integrate the possible ways in which these compounds can potentiate their effect. The most important pathophysiologies that manifest in AD will be addressed, in order to have a better understanding of the mechanisms of action through which these bioactive compounds exert a neuroprotective effect.

Preparation of novel shell-ionotropically crosslinked micelles based on hexadecylamine and tripolyphosphate for cancer drug delivery

AIMS

Micellar systems have the advantage of being easily prepared, cheap, and readily loadable with bioactive molecular cargo. However, their fundamental pitfall is poor stability, particularly under dilution conditions. We propose to use simple quaternary ammonium surfactants, namely, hexadecylamine (HDA) and hexadecylpyridinium (HDAP), together with tripolyphosphate (TPP) anion, to generate ionotropically stabilized micelles capable of drug delivery into cancer cells.

METHODS

optimized mixed HDA/HDAP micelles were prepared and stabilized with TPP. Curcumin was used as a loaded model drug. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by dynamic light scattering, infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. Moreover, their cellular uptake was assessed using flow cytometry and confocal fluorescence microscopy.

RESULTS

The prepared nanoparticles were found to be stable under dilution and at high temperatures and to have a size range from 139 nm to 580 nm, depending on pH (4.6-7.4), dilution (up to 100 times), and temperature (25 - 80 °C). They were effective at delivering their load into cancer cells. Additionally, flow cytometry indicated the resulting stabilized micellar nanoparticles to be non-cytotoxic.

CONCLUSIONS

The described novel stabilized micelles are simple to prepare and viable for cancer delivery.

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.

flavicarpa) peel

BACKGROUND

Pectin extracted by high-speed shearing from passion fruit peel (HSSP) is a potentially excellent wall material for encapsulating curcumin, which has multiple advantages over pectin prepared by heated water extraction. HSSP was used to fabricate complex nanoparticles of zein-sodium caseinate-pectin for encapsulation of curcumin in this study. The influence of heating on the physicochemical properties of the composite nanoparticles was also investigated, as well as the effect of composite nanoparticles on the encapsulation efficiency, antioxidant activity and release characteristics of curcumin.

RESULTS

The nanoparticles were formed through electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions between the proteins and HSSP. A temperature of 50 °C was more favorable for generating compact and small-sized nanoparticles, which could effectively improve the encapsulation efficiency and functional properties. Moreover, compared to other pectin used in the study, the nanoparticles prepared with HSSP showed the best functionality with a particle size of 234.28 ± 0.85 nm, encapsulation rate of 90.22 ± 0.54%, free radical scavenging rate of 78.97% and strongest protective capacity in simulated gastric fluid and intestinal release effect.

CONCLUSION

Zein-sodium caseinate-HSSP is effective for encapsulating and delivering hydrophobic bioactive substances such as curcumin, which has potential applications in the functional food and pharmaceutical industries. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Evaluation of Efficacy of Curcumin and Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester in Breast Cancer by Preclinical Studies

ims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the combined and comparative efficacy of Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and curcumin in breast cancer.

BACKGROUND

CAPE and curcumin are a class of phenolics. While curcumin is obtained from turmeric, CAPE is found in Baccharis sarothroides and Populus deltoides. Both agents are reported to produce activities in some cancer types. The combined and comparative effects of the two agents in breast cancer have not yet reported.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the potential of CAPE and curcumin in both in vitro and in vivo breast cancer models.

METHODS

Human breast cancer cell lines, MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7, were exposed to CAPE and curcumin, followed by functional assays such as cell cytotoxicity, cell proliferation and colony formation, cell cycle, mitochondrial membrane potential, apoptosis, and monodansylcadaverine (MDC) staining for autophagy. Computational analyses and mouse models were also used.

RESULTS

Employing computational analyses, both agents were found to exhibit drug-like properties. Both molecules interacted with the key molecules of the NF-κB pathway. CAPE and curcumin inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, and invasion, triggering apoptosis in breast cancer cells. CAPE was found to be more effective than curcumin. Two agents working together were more effective than each agent working alone. Both agents suppressed the expression of survivin, Bcl-xL and GLUT-1. The level of cleaved PARP was increased by both agents. Both phenolics observed an induction in ROS generation. Further, both molecules triggered a dissipation in mitochondrial membrane potential. In mice models implanted with Ehrlich-Lettre ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells, both drugs inhibited the growth of the tumour. The phenolics also modulated the metabolic parameters in tumour-bearing mice.

CONCLUSION

The observations suggest that the combination of curcumin plus CAPE may be better in comparison to individual molecules. Other: The study opens a window for analysing the efficacy of the combination of CAPE and curcumin in animal studies. This will provide a basis for examining the combined efficacy of two agents in a clinical trial.

A systematic review of the efficacy and safety of turmeric in the treatment of digestive disorders

Turmeric has been gaining popularity as a treatment option for digestive disorders, although a rigorous synthesis of efficacy has not been conducted. This study aimed to summarize the evidence for the efficacy and safety of turmeric in the treatment of digestive disorders, including inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), dyspepsia, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and peptic ulcers. Literature searches were conducted in Medline, EMBASE, AMED, the Cochrane Central Register of Control Trials, and Dissertation Abstracts from inception to November 15, 2021. Dual independent screening of citations and full texts was conducted and studies meeting inclusion criteria were retained: randomized controlled trials (RCT) and comparative observational studies evaluating turmeric use in people of any age with one of the digestive disorders of interest. Extraction of relevant data and risk of bias assessments were performed by two reviewers independently. Meta-analysis was not conducted due to high heterogeneity. From 1136 citations screened, 26 eligible studies were retained. Most studies were assessed to have a high risk of bias, and many had methodological limitations. Descriptive summaries suggest that turmeric is safe, with possible efficacy in patients with IBD or IBS, but its effects were inconsistent for other conditions. The efficacy of turmeric in digestive disorders remains unclear due to the high risk of bias and methodological limitations of the included studies. Future studies should be designed to include larger sample sizes, use rigorous statistical methods, employ core outcome sets, and adhere to reporting guidance for RCTs of herbal interventions to facilitate more meaningful comparisons and robust conclusions.

Neurological recovery and neurogenesis by curcumin sustained-release system cross-linked with an acellular spinal cord scaffold in rat spinal cord injury: Targeting NLRP3 inflammasome pathway

In the context of treating spinal cord injury (SCI), the modulation of inflammatory responses, and the creation of a suitable region for tissue regeneration may present a promising approach. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of curcumin (Cur)-loaded bovine serum albumin nanoparticles (Cur-BSA NPs) cross-linked with an acellular spinal cord scaffold (ASCS) on the functional recovery in a rat model of SCI. We developed an ASCS using chemical and physical methods. Cur-BSA, and blank (B-BSA) NPs were fabricated and cross-linked with ASCS via EDC-NHS, resulting in the production of Cur-ASCS and B-ASCS. We assessed the properties of scaffolds and NPs as well as their cross-links. Finally, using a male rat hemisection model of SCI, we investigated the consequences of the resulting scaffolds. The inflammatory markers, neuroregeneration, and functional recovery were evaluated. Our results showed that Cur was efficiently entrapped at the rate of 42% ± 1.3 in the NPs. Compared to B-ASCS, Cur-ASCS showed greater effectiveness in the promotion of motor recovery. The implantation of both scaffolds could increase the migration of neural stem cells (Nestin- and GFAP-positive cells) following SCI with the superiority of Cur-ASCS. Cur-ASCS was successful to regulate the gene expression and protein levels of NLRP3, ASC, and Casp1in the spinal cord lesion. Our results indicate that using ASCS can lead to the entrance of cells into the scaffold and promote neurogenesis. However, Cur-ASCS had greater effects in terms of inflammation relief and enhanced neurogenesis.

Self-assembled pea vicilin nanoparticles as nanocarriers for improving the antioxidant activity, environmental stability and sustained-release property of curcumin

BACKGROUND

The application of curcumin (Cur) in the food industry is usually limited by its low water solubility and poor stability. This study aimed to fabricate self-assembled nanoparticles using pea vicilin (7S) through a pH-shifting method (pH 7-pH 12-pH 7) to develop water-soluble nanocarriers of Cur.

RESULTS

Intrinsic fluorescence, far-UV circular dichroism spectra and transmission electron microscopy analysis demonstrated that the structure of 7S could be unfolded at pH 12.0 and refolded when the pH shifted to 7.0. The assembled 7S-Cur exhibited a high loading ability of 81.63 μg mg-1 for Cur and homogeneous particle distribution. Cur was encapsulated in the 7S hydrophobic nucleus in an amorphous form and combined through hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding, resulting in the static fluorescence quenching of 7S. Compared with free Cur, the retention rates of Cur in 7S-Cur were approximately 1.12 and 1.70 times higher under UV exposure at 365 nm or heating at 75 °C for 120 min, respectively, as well as 7S-Cur showing approximately 1.50 times higher antioxidant activity. During simulated gastrointestinal experiments, 7S-Cur exhibited a better sustained-release property than free Cur.

CONCLUSION

The self-assembled 7S nanocarriers prepared using a pH-shifting method effectively improved the antioxidant activity, environmental stability and sustained-release property of Cur. Therefore, 7S isolated from pea protein could be used as potential nanocarriers for Cur. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Curcumin alleviates cecal oxidative injury in diquat-induced broilers by regulating the Nrf2/ARE pathway and microflora

This study evaluated the alleviative effect of curcumin (CUR) on the diquat (DQ)-induced cecal injury in broilers. A total of 320 one-day-old Cobb broilers were selected and randomly divided into 4 treatments, namely control, DQ, CUR 100, and CUR150 groups. The control and DQ groups were fed a basal diet, while the CUR 100 and CUR150 groups were fed the basal diet supplemented with 100 and 150 mg/kg CUR, respectively. Each group had 8 replicates, with 10 broilers per replicate. On day 21 of the experiment, 1 broiler was selected from each replicate and intraperitoneally injected 20 mg/kg body weight of DQ for DQ, CUR 100, and CUR 150 groups. Broilers in control group received equivalent volume of saline. Broilers were euthanized 48h postinjection for tissue sampling. The results showed that DQ injection could cause oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions in the cecum, affecting the fatty acid production and flora structure, thus leading to cecum damage. Compared with the DQ group, the activity of superoxide dismutase, the level of interleukin 10, acetic acid, and total volatile fatty, and the abundance of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2, copper and zinc superoxide dismutase and catalase mRNA in the cecal mucosa of broilers in the CUR group increased significantly (P < 0.05). However, the levels of malondialdehyd, reactive oxygen species, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and the expression of cysteine-aspartic acid protease-3 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha decreased significantly (P < 0.05) in the CUR group. In addition, CUR treatment alleviated the damage to the cecum and restored the flora structure, and Lactobacillus and Lactobacillaceae promoted the alleviative effect of CUR on DQ. In summary, CUR could alleviate the cecal injury caused by DQ-induced oxidative damage and inflammatory reactions by regulating the Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway and intestinal flora, thus protecting the cecum.

In Situ Reaction-Generated Aldehyde-Scavenging Polypeptides-Curcumin Conjugate Nanoassemblies for Combined Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury

The microenvironment after traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) involves complex pathological processes, including elevated oxidative stress, accumulated reactive aldehydes from lipid peroxidation, excessive immune cell infiltration, etc. Unfortunately, most of current neuroprotection therapies cannot cope with the intricate pathophysiology of SCI, leading to scant treatment efficacies. Here, we developed a facile in situ reaction-induced self-assembly method to prepare aldehyde-scavenging polypeptides (PAH)-curcumin conjugate nanoassemblies (named as PFCN) for combined neuroprotection in SCI. The prepared PFCN could release PAH and curcumin in response to oxidative and acidic SCI microenvironment. Subsequently, PFCN exhibited an effectively neuroprotective effect through scavenging toxic aldehydes as well as reactive nitrogen and oxygen species in neurons, modulating microglial M1/M2 polarization, and down-regulating the expression of inflammation-related cytokines to inhibit neuroinflammation. The intravenous administration of PFCN could significantly ameliorate the malignant microenvironment of injured spinal cord, protect the neurons, and promote the motor function recovery in the contusive SCI rat model.

A Targeted and Responsive Nanoprodrug Delivery System for Synergistic Glioma Chemotherapy

Doxorubicin (DOX) is widely used as a chemotherapeutic agent for both hematologic and solid tumors and is a reasonable candidate for glioma treatment. However, its effectiveness is hindered by significant toxicity and drug resistance. Moreover, the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) brings a crucial challenge to glioma therapy. In response, a GSH-responsive and actively targeted nanoprodrug delivery system (cRGD/PSDOX-Cur@NPs) are developed. In this system, a disulfide bond-bridged DOX prodrug (PEG-SS-DOX) is designed to release specifically in the high glutathione (GSH) tumor environment, markedly reducing the cardiotoxicity associated with DOX. To further address DOX resistance, curcumin, serving as a P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitor, effectively increased cellular DOX concentration. Consequently, cRGD/PSDOX-Cur@NPs exhibited synergistic anti-tumor effects in vitro. Furthermore, in vivo experiments validated the superior BBB penetration and brain-targeting abilities of cRGD/PSDOX-Cur@NPs, showcasing the remarkable potential for treating both subcutaneous and orthotopic gliomas. This research underscores that this nanoprodrug delivery system presents a novel approach to inhibiting glioma while addressing resistance and systemic toxicity.

Dual-ROS Sensitive Moieties Conjugate Inhibits Curcumin Oxidative Degradation for Colitis Precise Therapy

Curcumin, a natural bioactive polyphenol with diverse molecular targets, is well known for its anti-oxidation and anti-inflammatory potential. However, curcumin exhibits low solubility (<1 µg mL-1 ), poor tissue-targeting ability, and rapid oxidative degradation, resulting in poor bioavailability and stability for inflammatory therapy. Here, poly(diselenide-oxalate-curcumin) nanoparticle (SeOC-NP) with dual-reactive oxygen species (ROS) sensitive chemical moieties (diselenide and peroxalate ester bonds) is fabricated by a one-step synthetic strategy. The results confirmed that dual-ROS sensitive chemical moieties endowed SeOC-NP with the ability of targeted delivery of curcumin and significantly suppress oxidative degradation of curcumin for high-efficiency inflammatory therapy. In detail, the degradation amount of curcumin for SeOC is about 4-fold lower than that of free curcumin in an oxidative microenvironment. As a result, SeOC-NP significantly enhanced the antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory efficacy of curcumin in vitro analysis by scavenging intracellular ROS and suppressing the secretion of nitric oxide and pro-inflammatory cytokines. In mouse colitis models, orally administered SeOC-NP can remarkably alleviate the symptoms of IBD and maintain the homeostasis of gut microbiota. This work provided a simple and effective strategy to fabricate ROS-responsive micellar and enhance the oxidation stability of medicine for precise therapeutic inflammation.

Curcumin in Cancer and Inflammation: An In-Depth Exploration of Molecular Interactions, Therapeutic Potentials, and the Role in Disease Management

This paper delves into the diverse and significant roles of curcumin, a polyphenolic compound from the Curcuma longa plant, in the context of cancer and inflammatory diseases. Distinguished by its unique molecular structure, curcumin exhibits potent biological activities including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential anticancer effects. The research comprehensively investigates curcumin's molecular interactions with key proteins involved in cancer progression and the inflammatory response, primarily through molecular docking studies. In cancer, curcumin's effectiveness is determined by examining its interaction with pivotal proteins like CDK2, CK2α, GSK3β, DYRK2, and EGFR, among others. These interactions suggest curcumin's potential role in impeding cancer cell proliferation and survival. Additionally, the paper highlights curcumin's impact on inflammation by examining its influence on proteins such as COX-2, CRP, PDE4, and MD-2, which are central to the inflammatory pathway. In vitro and clinical studies are extensively reviewed, shedding light on curcumin's binding mechanisms, pharmacological impacts, and therapeutic application in various cancers and inflammatory conditions. These studies are pivotal in understanding curcumin's functionality and its potential as a therapeutic agent. Conclusively, this review emphasizes the therapeutic promise of curcumin in treating a wide range of health issues, attributed to its complex chemistry and broad pharmacological properties. The research points towards curcumin's growing importance as a multi-faceted natural compound in the medical and scientific community.

Role of CD36 in central nervous system diseases

CD36 is a highly glycosylated integral membrane protein that belongs to the scavenger receptor class B family and regulates the pathological progress of metabolic diseases. CD36 was recently found to be widely expressed in various cell types in the nervous system, including endothelial cells, pericytes, astrocytes, and microglia. CD36 mediates a number of regulatory processes, such as endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammatory responses, which are involved in many central nervous system diseases, such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and spinal cord injury. CD36 antagonists can suppress CD36 expression or prevent CD36 binding to its ligand, thereby achieving inhibition of CD36-mediated pathways or functions. Here, we reviewed the mechanisms of action of CD36 antagonists, such as Salvianolic acid B, tanshinone IIA, curcumin, sulfosuccinimidyl oleate, antioxidants, and small-molecule compounds. Moreover, we predicted the structures of binding sites between CD36 and antagonists. These sites can provide targets for more efficient and safer CD36 antagonists for the treatment of central nervous system diseases.

Uroprotective effects of berberine and curcumin in cyclophosphamide-induced interstitial cystitis

In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effects of berberine (BER) and curcumin (CUR) in the experimental model of cystitis induced by cyclophosphamide (CYP). A total of 36 Wistar-Albino female rats were used in the study. Rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6). Normal control group, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) group, CYP group (75 mg/kg), CYP + BER (75 mg/kg CYP and 50 mg/kg BER), CYP + CUR group (75 mg/kg CYP and 50 mg/kg CUR), CYP + BER + CUR group (75 mg/kg CYP and 50 mg/kg BER and 50 mg/kg CUR). Severe edema, hyperemia, hemorrhage, necrosis, and thinning of the epithelial layer were observed in the CYP group. BER and CUR treatment significantly reduced these pathologies. Masson-Trichrome staining was severe in the CYP group and moderate in the CYP + BER, CYP + CUR, and CYP + BER + CUR groups. In the CYP group, there was a severe expression of caspase-3, TNF-α and IL-6, and mild expression of IL-10. BER and CUR treatment decreased the expression of caspase-3, TNF-α, and IL-6 and increased the expression of IL-10. The findings of the study reveal that BER and CUR treatments may reduce CYP-induced bladder damage by reducing apoptosis and inflammation and ameliorating histopathological changes.

Antifungal activity of 3,3'-dimethoxycurcumin (DMC) against dermatophytes and Candida species

Dermatomycosis is an infection with global impacts caused especially by dermatophytes and Candida species. Current antifungal therapies involve drugs that face fungal resistance barriers. This clinical context emphasizes the need to discover new antifungal agents. Herein, the antifungal potential of 10 curcumin analogs was evaluated against four Candida and four dermatophyte species. The most active compound, 3,3'-dimethoxycurcumin, exhibited minimum inhibitory concentration values ranging from 1.9‒62.5 to 15.6‒62.5 µg ml-1 against dermatophytes and Candida species, respectively. According to the checkerboard method, the association between DMC and terbinafine demonstrated a synergistic effect against Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Epidermophyton floccosum. Ergosterol binding test indicated DMC forms a complex with ergosterol of Candida albicans, C. krusei, and C. tropicalis. However, results from the sorbitol protection assay indicated that DMC had no effect on the cell walls of Candida species. The in vivo toxicity, using Galleria mellonella larvae, indicated no toxic effect of DMC. Altogether, curcumin analog DMC was a promising antifungal agent with a promising ability to act against Candida and dermatophyte species.

Curcumin activates the JNK signaling pathway to promote ferroptosis in colon cancer cells

Recent evidence has proved that curcumin as a natural polyphenol have a great anticancer and anti-proliferative effects in cancer cells. Ferroptosis, a new form of regulated cell death, plays a vital role in the pathogenesis and therapy of cancers. In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of curcumin in ferroptosis of human colorectal cancer cells and its underlying molecular mechanisms. SW-480 colorectal cancer cells were treated by curcumin with different concentrations. Cell viability was determined by using MTT assay. The concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and intracellular iron were measured using specific related kits. Real-time PCR and Western blot analysis were used to determine the expression of ferroptosis-related proteins including ACSL4, GPx4 and FTH1 and activation of JNK protein. Curcumin suppressed SW-480 cancer cells viability in dose-dependent manner. Cell treatment with curcumin led to accumulation of ROS and iron within cells and increase in the intracellular levels of lipid peroxidation. In addition, curcumin modulated the mRNA and protein expression levels of ferroptosis-related proteins including ACSL4, GPx4 and FTH1 and suppression of JNK signaling. Curcumin may exhibit its anticancer effect on colorectal cancer by downregulating JNK signaling to induce ferroptosis in SW-480 cells.

Development of curcumin-loaded nanoemulsion stabilized with texturized whey protein concentrate: Characterization, stability and in vitro digestibility

The impacts of pH (2.8, 4.5, and 7.2) and extrusion cooking temperature (60°C, 85°C, and 110°C) on properties of native whey protein concentrate (NWPC) were evaluated, followed by delivering of curcumin through a nanoemulsion system stabilized with extruded WPC (EWPC). Protein solubility, surface hydrophobicity, and emulsion properties such as emulsion activity index (at 1% [w/w] protein concentration), stability index (at 0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 4% [w/w] protein concentration) and creaming index (evaluated at different protein concentrations [0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 4% w/w] and oil levels [20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%]) were improved as a function of the extrusion process. It was found that both covalent and non-covalent interactions contributed to the stabilization of the extrudates. The rheological investigation of the emulsions stabilized with EWPC (at different oil levels [20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%]) revealed high viscosity and shear thinning behavior as well as much higher G' and G″ values. Encapsulation efficiency was increased from 90.8% to 95.7% when NWPC and EWPC were used, respectively. The curcumin-loaded nanoemulsion containing EWPC presented high stability in confronting with ionic strength (NaCl salt with a concentration of 0.1-1 M), pH (3, 5, and 7), thermal treatments (pasteurization at 63°C for 30 min and sterilization at 95°C for 10 min) and storage time (1 month at 4°C and 25°C). In vitro release behavior revealed that samples stabilized with EWPC showed burst release in simulated intestine conditions. However, it was more stable in stomach conditions.