Effects Of Curcumin Research Articles

Curcumin Alleviates Airway Inflammation in Cough-Variant Asthmatic Rats by Modulating M1/M2 Macrophage Polarization.

With the increase of environmental pollution and atypical pathogen infections, the incidence of cough variant asthma (CVA) has been increasing annually, making it a pressing issue of the medical community. This study aims to observe the ameliorative effect of curcumin on a rat model of cough variant asthma. A rat model of cough variant asthma was induced by sensitization with ovalbumin combined with aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)3), followed by repeated excitations. The drug was administered on the day of the initial nebulized attack, and gavage was administered for 14 d. Pathological changes in the lung tissues were observed, along with the assessment of cough susceptibility and airway resistance. The number of inflammatory cell eosinophils and leukocytes were determined in alveolar lavage fluid. Additionally, serum inflammatory factors and lung tissues Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) protein were assessed. The level of M1/M2 macrophages was also detected. Following the administration of curcumin, there was reduced inflammatory infiltration, less disordered arrangement of the lung tissue, and decreased abnormal proliferation of lung tissues in cough variant asthma rats compared to the model group. Curcumin treatment led toa notable reduction in cough frequency, a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory factor concentration levels in serum and inflammatory cell counts in the alveolar lavage fluid, and a marked increase in anti-inflammatory factor levels (p < 0.05). Additionally, curcumin administration led to a significant increase in M2-type macrophage levels, while simultaneously decreasing the levels of M1-type macrophages (p < 0.05). The administration of curcumin effectively ameliorates ovalbumin-induced airway inflammation in cough-variant asthma rats. This effect is attributed to modulating macrophage polarization towards the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype, thereby reducing airway inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness, and lung tissue injury.

The Protective Effects of Curcumin against Renal Toxicity.

Curcumin is a naturally polyphenolic compound used for hepatoprotective, thrombosuppressive, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, antineoplastic, antiproliferative, hypoglycemic, and antiarthritic effects. Kidney disease is a major public health problem associated with severe clinical complications worldwide. The protective effects of curcumin against nephrotoxicity have been evaluated in several experimental models. In this review, we discussed how curcumin exerts its protective effect against renal toxicity and also illustrated the mechanisms of action such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, regulating cell death, and anti-fibrotic. This provides new perspectives and directions for the clinical guidance and molecular mechanisms for the treatment of renal diseases by curcumin.

Unveiling Potent Anti-Asthmatic Effect of Curcumin in Combination with Salmeterol in Swiss Albino Mice

Background: Asthma is a long-term inflammatory respiratory condition marked by alterations in the airways and an increase in inflammatory cell infiltration. It has been observed that Curcumin possesses immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, and relaxing properties for smooth muscle in the airways. Salmeterol is believed to ease the smooth muscles of the airways. Objective: Swiss Albino mice were used in the research to examine the combination anti-asthmatic effects of Curcumin and Salmeterol in asthma produced by ova albumin and milk induced eosinophilia and leucocytosis. Methods: The mice received pre-treatment with Curcumin (10 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg intraperitoneally) as well as Salmeterol (5 mg/kg) after being stimulated with an Ovalbumin (OVA) challenge and milk. After the induction period, various hematological, biochemical, molecular (ELISA), and histological analyses were performed. Results: The findings demonstrated that the combined treatment decreased the animal’s overall leukocyte and eosinophil numbers in a manner that was dose-dependent. Additionally, the therapy reduced albumin and overall protein amount in serum, BALF and lung tissues, facilitated changes in haematological parameters, and reduced the rise of Th2 cytokines (IL-4, TNF-α, IL-13) levels that is induced by OVA in lungs and BALF, total IgE level in serum. The combined action of Curcumin and Salmeterol reduced OVA-induced inflammatory influx and ultrastructural abnormalities, according to histopathological evaluation. Conclusion: The findings of this investigation demonstrate that curcumin and salmeterol together possess anti-asthmatic effects through suppressing Th2 triggered immune response and possessing an anti-inflammatory effect and anti-allergic effect. Thus combination of treatments might be a novel technique for managing asthma.

Development of fast-dissolving sublingual nanofibers containing allergen and curcumin for immune response modulation in a mouse model of allergic rhinitis.

Curcumin (CUR) has been considered a potential therapeutic agent for allergic reactions due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Nanofibers have attracted increasing attention in drug delivery. The aim of this study was to investigate the combined therapeutic effects of curcumin and allergen in nanofiber-based treatments in order to increase the effectiveness of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) efficacy in a mouse model of allergic rhinitis. Nanofibers containing CUR (1.25% and 2.5%) and ovalbumin 2% (OVA) as an allergen were prepared via electrospinning and characterized. BALB/c mice were sensitized with OVA to the induced allergic rhinitis model. SLIT with free and/or nanofibers was carried out. IL-4, INF-γ, and IgE serum levels were measured using ELISA. Splenocyte proliferation was evaluated by the MTT assay. Lung and nasal histological examinations and nasal lavage fluid (NALF) cell counting were carried out. Nanofibers containing 1.25% CUR and 2% OVA were chosen as the optimal formulations. SLIT treatment with the CUR and OVA nanofiber co-administration led to a significantly decreased serum IgE. Nanofiber containing 2.5 µg of CUR/mouse combined with OVA nanofiber showed a significant decrease in IL-4 and an increase in IFN-γ compared to other groups. NALF assessment showed a significant decrease in specific cell and eosinophil counts in the treated nanofiber groups. The histopathological results of NAL in the optimal formulations were near normal, with diminished cellular infiltration and inflammation. Our findings suggest that co-sublingual administration of allergen and CUR nanofibers can be considered as potential immunomodulatory agents.

Effects of Curcumin and Doxorubicin on the Viability of Neuroblastoma Cancer Cell Line

Aim: Neuroblastoma has a very important place among childhood diseases, and despite all the methods used in treatment, it is very difficult to prevent neuroblastoma invasion. The number of studies showing that curcumin, the most active component of turmeric, is not toxic, is increasing day by day. In this study, the anticancer activities of curcumin (Cur), one of the important active compounds, were demonstrated in the Neuroblastoma cancer cell line (Na2B). Method: Neuroblastoma cell line was used in the study. To determine the IC50 doses of Dox and Cur, Na2B cells line were cultivated with an automatic pipette. MTT analysis was performed to analyze cell survival (viability). Inhibition levels in the cells were determined at 24 and 48 hours. Results: While the IC50 of Na2B cell proliferation was approximately 124.5 uM at the 48th hour in Dox-treated cells, the IC50 value of Cur at the 48th hour was found to be 224.6 uM. Conclusion: These results showed that Cur could be an alternative agent in the treatment of neuroblastoma, and its fewer side effects compared to other chemotherapeutic agents such as Dox would increase its preferability.

Magnesium metal-organic framework microneedles loaded with curcumin for accelerating oral ulcer healing.

Oral ulcers are a common oral mucosal disease that seriously affect the quality of life. Traditional drug treatments have shown unsatisfactory efficacy and potential adverse reactions. In this study, curcumin-loaded multifunctional magnesium metal-organic framework-embedded hyaluronic acid-soluble microneedles patches were developed to optimize treatment strategies for oral ulcers. This microneedles patch achieves efficient release of curcumin and Mg2+ in the ulcer through precisely targeted delivery and controllable release mechanism, significantly regulates inflammation, promotes cell migration and angiogenesis, and accelerates the ulcer healing process. At the same time, the synergistic effect of curcumin and gallic acid effectively alleviated oxidative stress, while the backplate ε-poly-L-lysine and needle tip Mg2+ jointly constructed an antibacterial barrier to effectively inhibit pathogens. Verification using an oral ulcer rat model showed that the microneedles patch exhibited excellent therapeutic effects. This not only opens up a new avenue for clinical oral treatment but also marks a breakthrough in nanobiomaterials science and drug delivery technology and heralds a broad prospect in the field of oral ulcer treatment in the future.

Dual anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin and berberine on acetaminophen-induced liver injury in mice by inhibiting NF-κB activation via PI3K/AKT and PPARγ signaling pathways

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose is still a leading cause of drug-induced liver injury (DILI), accompanied with severe inflammatory response. However, the therapy for APAP-induced DILI is rather limited. The combined application of natural products to treat DILI induced by APAP may be a new direction of the research. This study was conducted to evaluate the dual anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin (CUR) combined with berberine (BBR) against APAP-mediated DILI. Network pharmacology found that PI3K-Akt and PPAR signaling pathways were primarily involved in anti-DILI of the combination of CUR and BBR. APAP injection enhanced the levels of ALT, AST, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in mice, while such phenomenon was significantly reversed by the cotreatment of CUR and BBR, which was more effective than either single treatment. The increase of p-NF-κB and p-IKKα/β protein expression and the decrease of p-PI3K, p-AKT, and PPARγ protein expression in APAP-treated mice were markedly inhibited by the coadministration of CUR and BBR. Molecular docking further demonstrated that both CUR and BBR could stably bind to PI3K, AKT, and PPARγ protein. In conclusion, the combination of CUR and BBR more effectively protected liver from APAP-triggered DILI than individual treatment. The mechanism is to alleviate hepatic inflammation by inhibiting NF-κB activation, which is possibly mediated by PI3K/Akt and PPARγ signaling pathways.

Common Mitochondrial Targets of Curcumin and Cinnamic Acid, the Membrane-Active Natural Phenolic Compounds

Background: Research has shown the multiple actions of curcumin on different cell systems, including enzymes and mitochondria. The detected effects of curcumin on mitochondria are diverse, ranging from protective to toxic. Objectives: In this present work, the influence of curcumin, as well as cinnamic acid, which is a microbial metabolite and a possible product of the microbial breakdown of curcumin, on isolated mitochondria, was investigated. Methods: Membrane potential, swelling, respiration, and calcium retention capacity were studied using selective electrodes, fluorescence and spectral methods. Results: It was found that curcumin at low concentrations (10–20 μM) activated the opening of the calcium-dependent permeability transition pore (mPTP) and decreased the calcium retention capacity and threshold concentrations necessary for the mPTP opening. Moreover, curcumin caused a concentration-dependent stepwise decrease in the membrane potential, accompanied by the activation of respiration and a decrease in oxidative phosphorylation, which indicates that curcumin is a typical mitochondrial uncoupler. The uncoupling effect strongly depended on the concentration of curcumin, which also increased, stepwise, from weak uncoupling at 25 µM to complete uncoupling at 75–100 µM. Cinnamic acid had similar effects, with the exception of the depolarizing effect, at concentrations that were an order of magnitude higher. Conclusions: Presumably, the uncoupling action of curcumin is a priming event that modulates any energy- and redox-dependent mitochondrial functions, from positive stimulation to toxic disorder. This effect can also underlie the curcumin-induced changes in different cellular processes and be achieved by targeted delivery of curcumin to certain cells, bypassing the microbiota.

Hyaluronic acid-decorated lipid nanocarriers as novel vehicles for curcumin: Improved stability, cellular absorption, and anti-inflammatory effects

This study aimed to investigate how hyaluronic acid interfacial decoration affects the stability, cellular absorption, and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers. Nanocarriers were synthesized with an ovalbumin single layer and ovalbumin/hyaluronic acid double, mixed, or conjugated layers. All nanocarriers were spherical (200–300 nm diameter), and their encapsulation efficiency exceeded 95 %. Among the layers, the conjugated one exhibited the highest elastic surface dilatational modulus of approximately 40 mN/m, and the longest curcumin half-life of 186.07 days at 4 °C. Spearman's correlation analysis showed a negative correlation (r = −0.6698) between the recrystallization index and curcumin stability. The layer's mechanical strength improved curcumin stability by preventing crystal transition. Hyaluronic acid decoration enhanced the curcumin uptake of Caco-2 cells by 1.96–2.48 folds. Among the layers, the conjugate one was the most effective because of its strong binding constant with the receptor. Hyaluronic acid decoration improved the anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin.

Evaluation of the hepatoprotective effect of curcumin alone or in combination with vitamin C in methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity in mice.

To assess the hepatoprotective effect of curcumin and/or vitamin C in methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity. The experimental study was conducted at the Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, and the Iraqi Centre for Cancer and Medical Genetic Research, Mustansiriya University, Baghdad, Iraq, from Nov 12, 2020, to June 1, 2021, and comprised Swiss albino female mice aged 3-4 months and weighing 30-40g each. The mice were divided into 5 groups and treated for 10 days. Group 1 received distilled water, group 2 received single-dose methotrexate on the 10th day of the trial, group 3 was treated with curcumin plus methotrexate, group 4 was treated with vitamin C plus methotrexate, and group 5 was treated with curcumin and vitamin C plus methotrexate. Parameters measured were serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase, as well as hepatic tissue malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase and glutathione. Data was analysed using SPSS 16. There were 35 mice; 7(20%) in each of the 5 groups. Hepatoprotection produced by curcumin as reflected by a decrease in lactate dehydrogenase and malondialdehyde levels was significant (p<0.05). Vitamin C also produced a significant hepatoprotection, demonstrated by a decrease in alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase and malondialdehyde levels. The combination of curcumin and vitamin C reflected an additive effect demonstrated by a significant decrease in malondialdehyde (p<0.05). Curcumin and/or vitamin C provided hepatoprotection against methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity through modulation of oxidative stress biomarkers.

Visible light potentiates rapid cell destruction and death by curcumin in vitro.

Curcumin, a small molecule derived from the plant Curcuma longa, is a pleiotropic agent with widely varying pharmacological activities attributed to it. In addition to its anti-cancer activity curcumin is also known to be cytotoxic upon photoactivation. Time-lapse DIC and correlative fluorescence microscopy were used to evaluate the effects of curcumin, combined with continuous exposure to visible light, on cellular components of RTG-2 cells. Curcumin combined with visible light resulted in rapid and dramatic destruction of cells. F-actin and microtubule cytoskeletons were drastically altered, both showing fragmentation and overall loss from cells. Nuclei exhibited granulated nucleoplasm, condensed DNA, and physical shrinkage. Mitochondria rapidly fragmented along their length and disappeared from cells. Plasma membrane was breached based on lipophilic dye staining and the entrance of otherwise impermeant small molecules into the cell. Grossly distorted morphology hallmarked by significant swelling and coarse granulation of the cytoplasm was consistently observed. All of these effects were dependent on visible light as the same cellular targets in curcumin-treated cells outside the illuminated area were always unperturbed. The combination of curcumin and continuous exposure to visible light enables rapid and irreversible cellular destruction which can be monitored in real-time. Real-time monitoring of this structural disintegration suggests a new approach to applying curcumin in photodynamic treatments, where the progression of cell and tissue destruction might be simultaneously evaluated through optical means.

The Effectiveness of Curcumin in Treating Oral Mucositis Related to Radiation and Chemotherapy: A Systematic Review.

Chemotherapy (CT) and radiation therapy (RT), while effective against cancer, often cause severe side effects, such as oral mucositis and other oral diseases. Oral mucositis, characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the oral mucosa, is one of the most painful side effects that can reduce quality of life and limit cancer treatment. Curcumin, a polyphenol from Curcuma longa, has garnered attention for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-carcinogenic properties, which protect the oral mucosa by reducing oxidative stress and modulating inflammation. This study reviews the therapeutic potential of curcumin in preventing and managing oral mucositis caused by CT and RT. Clinical trials show curcumin's effectiveness in reducing the incidence and severity of oral mucositis. Although curcumin supplementation appears to be a promising and cost-effective approach for mitigating oral complications in cancer patients, further clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and optimize dosing strategies.

Milk-Derived Exosomes: Innovative Nanocarriers for Enhanced Anticancer Drug Delivery

This in-depth review examines the recently emerging field of using exosomes from milk as anticancer medication nanocarriers. It gives a summary of the most current developments, difficulties, and opportunities in this cutting-edge therapeutic strategy. Exosomes are found in many different body fluids and are considered a promising option for precision medicine due to their biocompatibility and innate cell-targeting abilities. These extracellular vesicles are nanoscale. The review commences with a comprehensive synopsis of the composition and biogenesis of exosomes derived from milk, highlighting their distinct membrane properties and capacity to transport cargo. Interestingly, these naturally occurring nanocarriers hold a variety of bioactive substances that can be precisely delivered as anticancer medications. These substances include proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Because dietary(poly) phenols are rapidly metabolized, their ability to prevent cancer is limited. Extracellular vesicles called exosomes may shield polyphenols from metabolism. Our objective was to evaluate the anticancer effects of free curcumin and resveratrol in breast cancer cell lines compared to their encapsulation in extracellular matrix derived from milk. Breast tissue was disposed of kinetically using rats. Curcumin and resveratrol were assessed using UPLC-QTOF-MS and GV-MS, respectively. Dietary polyphenols have a limited capacity to prevent cancer due to their rapid metabolism. Extracellular vesicles called exosomes may shield polyphenols from metabolism. Our goal was to assess in breast tissue. UPLC-QTOF-MS and GV-MS were used to evaluate curcumin and resveratrol, respectively. Curcumin and Resveratrol anticancer activity and bioavailability were improved by milk extracellular urea, which served as Trojan horses to get around the ABC-mediated chemoresistance of cancer cells. Exosomes derived from milk are being studied for their potential as carriers of therapeutic and diagnostic agents, emphasizing the potential benefits of personalized and precision medicine approaches to cancer treatment. The review also covers the challenges that the clinical translation of milk-derived exosome-based drug delivery systems currently faces, including scalability, standardization and safety profiles. The article's conclusion presents an optimistic view of how milk-derived exosomes will develop in the future in terms of anticancer medication delivery. The review highlights the revolutionary potential of using milk-derived exosomes, nature's nanocarriers, to advance the field toward more precise and effective cancer treatments, anticipating future advancements and emerging trends.

Analysis of the Relative Effectiveness of Curcumin Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles and Pure Curcumin Compound in the Treatment of Leishmaniasis.

Aim: A proficient drug conveyance plan is expected to treat cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). Regardless of their deficient solvency, significant expense, low assimilation, and rising medication-safe Leishmania spp., pentavalent antimonials and curcumin (CC) may fix leishmaniasis. Drug conveyance frameworks (DDS) might be utilized to treat CL without these worries. Methodology: We tried free CC and Curcumin-stacked nanoparticles produced using chitosan (CC-CNPs) for antileishmanial movement in-vitro. Nanoparticles of Chitosan (CNPs) were produced by tripolyphosphate (TPP), which are negatively charged ionic gelation. CC was added to the CNPs mix. The size, surface shape, epitome adequacy (EE), drug stacking content (DLC), and surface charge of the NPs were characterized using various approaches. The MTT test was performed to evaluate their effectiveness against Leishmania tropica promastigotes and axenic amastigotes after characterization. Results: Round CC-CNPs with a typical molecule size of 276 nm, a zeta capability of (+18.74 mV), and 88% embodiment viability were integrated. Following 72 hours, free CC restrained promastigotes and axenic amastigotes parasite load by 64 and 70%, separately, though CC-CNPs repressed parasites by 91 and 86%. CC-CNPs diminished parasite suitability better than free CC. The half-maximal inhibitory focus (IC50) of CC-CNPs was a lot of lower than that of free CC. Conclusion: In a portion-time subordinate way, CC-CNPs showed more antileishmanial action than unbound CC. In-vivo testing is expected for CL nearby treatment with this detailing.

On the health effects of curcumin and its derivatives

AbstractTurmeric (Curcuma longa) is an herbaceous plant that contains a phytochemical which is bright yellow and is known as curcumin. Turmeric, a member of Zingiberaceae family, has extensive application worldwide due to its beneficial medicinal attributes and is extensively used as a medicinal plant. Most people use turmeric as a spice, and it is a chief source of polyphenol curcumin. Curcuma longa has therapeutic properties, and since the initial extraction of curcumin from this plant, it has gained prodigious consideration from scientists in the medical field. The biological properties of curcumin, also known as 1,7‐bis (4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxyphenyl)‐1,6‐heptadiene‐3,5‐dione, or diferuloylmethane, include anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidant, anti‐cancer, anti‐asthmatic, anti‐arthritic, neuroprotective, anti‐diabetic, anti‐obesity, wound‐healing, hepatoprotective, skin curative, reproductive role, etc. This work has reviewed many clinical trials and their findings about these activities. The focus of this review manuscript is concentrated on the presently existing clinical and animal studies, which exposed the possible anti‐retroviral activities of curcumin and its by‐products.

Exploratory Metabolomics and Lipidomics Profiling Contributes to Understanding How Curcumin Improves Quality of Goat Semen Stored at 16 °C in Tropical Areas.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) exert a vital role in sperm quality during semen preservation, where excessive ROS leads to oxidative damage and undermines sperm integrity. Curcumin, a botanical extract, is capable of neutralizing ROS and enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes. This study was aimed at evaluating the effects of curcumin on sperm viability, acrosome integrity, and antioxidant levels, as well as metabolomic and lipidomic profiles. The results demonstrated that curcumin at 25 µmol/L significantly enhanced sperm motility, plasma membrane, and acrosome integrity, elevated the levels of antioxidant enzymes (T-AOC, CAT, SOD), and decreased ROS production (p < 0.05). Metabolomic analysis identified 93 distinct metabolites that showed significant differences between the control and curcumin-treated groups. KEGG pathways emphasized the participation of these metabolites in key metabolic processes such as the citric acid cycle, cholesterol metabolism, and fatty acid metabolism. Curcumin treatment brought about notable variations in lipid profiles, including increased levels of phosphatidylcholine, acylcarnitine, and triglyceride over the storage time, suggesting enhanced lipid anabolic activity. Overall, the supplementation of curcumin at 25 µmol/L effectively mitigates oxidative stress and prolongs the viability of semen storage at 16 °C by modulating specific metabolic and lipid profiles.

Comparative effects of curcumin, nano curcumin and their combination on reproductive traits and spawning performance of red tilapia (Oreochromis Niloticus X O. Mossambicus)

Curcumin, the main polyphenol component of turmeric powder, has garnered increasing attention as an effective supplement in fish diets. A comparative trial was conducted to evaluate the impacts of dietary supplementation with different forms of curcumin (free, in combination, or nanoparticles) on hemato-biochemical parameters, reproductive capacity, and related gene expressions of red tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus x O. mossambicus) broodstock. Fish (n = 168) were fed an isonitrogenous (30% CP), isocaloric (18.72 MJ kg − 1) diet containing basal diet (Control), 60 mg kg-1 of either free curcumin (Cur), curcumin/nano-curcumin blend (Cur/NCur), or nano-curcumin (NCur) for 56 days. Red tilapia broodstock (155 ± 5.65 g) were stocked at a male: female ratio of 1:3. Blood samples and gonads were collected to assess hemato-biochemical parameters, reproductive capacity, and related gene expression at the end of the feeding trial. The results indicated that the values of hematological parameters (RBCs, WBCs, hemoglobin), total protein, albumin values, and reproductive hormones (T, LH, and FSH) were significantly increased, while liver function enzymes were decreased in the NCur group (P < 0.05). Reproductive performances (GSI, gonad maturation, total number of fry per female) were significantly improved in the NCur group compared with those in other groups (p < 0.05). The expression of reproductive genes (CYP19A1A, FSHR, LHR, FOXL2A, ESR1, ESR2A, and PGR) were significantly up‐regulated in the gonads of fish fed NCur. Collectively, feeding red tilapia diets containing NCur led to noticeably better results followed by Cur/NCur blend, then free Cur compared to the control diet. These results indicate the superiority of NCur over its free or blended form, suggesting that a diet containing about 60 mg/kg of NCur is beneficial for enhancing hemato-biochemical parameters, improving reproductive performance, and enhancing the gonadal architecture of red tilapia.

Effects of Curcumin on Radiation/Chemotherapy-Induced Oral Mucositis: Combined Meta-Analysis, Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulation.

The study aims to investigate the effects of curcumin on radiation/chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis (R/CIOM) and preliminarily explore its mechanism. Randomized controlled trials were identified from the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Medline, and Google Scholar databases. RevMan 5.4 was used for statistical analysis to calculate the combined risk ratios (RRs). The mechanism was analyzed through network pharmacology, molecular docking, and a molecular dynamics simulation. The targets of curcumin were collected in HERB, PharmMapper, Targetnet, Swiss Target Prediction, and SuperPred. OMIM, GeneCards, and Disgenet were used to collect relevant targets for R/CIOM. Cytoscape software 3.8.0 was used to construct the component-target-pathway network. Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) networks were constructed using the STRING database. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed by Metascape. AutoDock Vina 4.2 software was used for molecular docking. The molecular dynamics simulation was performed by Gromacs v2022.03. It is found that 12 studies involving 565 patients were included. Meta-analyses showed that curcumin reduced the incidence of severe R/CIOM (RR 0.42 [0.24, 0.75]) and the mean severity of R/CIOM (MD -0.93 [-1.34, -0.52]). Eleven core target genes were identified in the treatment of R/CIOM with curcumin. The results of molecular docking and the molecular dynamics simulation showed that curcumin had strong binding energy and stability with target proteins including MAPK3, SRC, and TNF. Overall, these findings suggest curcumin can effectively improve severe R/CIOM, perhaps by affecting MAPK3, SRC, and TNF.

Antibacterial Effect of Co-Loaded Curcumin and Rutin in Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Compared to their Loading Alone.

The present study aimed to assess the antibacterial effect of co-loaded rutin and curcumin in mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Cur-Rut-MSNs). Rutin is a nontoxic phytochemical that is present expansively in vegetables and fruits. Curcumin is an active ingredient of Curcuma longa. Curcumin and rutin have a variety of therapeutic effects, essentially antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant actions. Low aqueous solubility and poor bioavailability of rutin and curcumin limit their application in therapeutic goals. One of the advantageous routes to improve their bioavailability and solubility is nanoformulation. Co-delivery of therapeutic agents has been reported to have better therapeutic effects than monotherapy. The present study has evaluated the antibacterial properties of Cur-Rut-MSNs. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of Cur-Rut-MSNs has been assessed against different bacteria. Cur-Rut-MSNs exerted significantly higher antibacterial effect than curcumin-loaded MSNs (Cur-MSNs) and rutin-loaded MSNs (Rut-MSNs) against Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterococcus faecalis (p<0.05). The antibacterial effect was enhanced by the co-loading of rutin and curcumin in MSNs. According to the findings of this study, Cur-Rut-MSNs exhibit an antibacterial effect and can be a favorable nanoformulation against planktonic bacteria.

Synergistic effect of curcumin and tamoxifen loaded in pH-responsive gemini surfactant nanoparticles on breast cancer cells

BackgroundDrug combination therapy is preferred over monotherapy in clinical research to improve therapeutic effects. Developing a new nanodelivery system for cancer drugs can reduce side effects and provide several advantages, including matched pharmacokinetics and potential synergistic activity. This study aimed to examine and determine the efficiency of the gemini surfactants (GSs) as a pH-sensitive polymeric carrier and cell-penetrating agent in cancer cells to achieve dual drug delivery and synergistic effects of curcumin (Cur) combined with tamoxifen citrate (TMX) in the treatment of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 human BC cell lines.MethodsThe synthesized NPs were self-assembled using a modified nanoprecipitation method. The functional groups and crystalline form of the nanoformulation were examined by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) used to assess zeta potential and particle size, and the morphological analysis determined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The anticancer effect was evaluated through an in vitro cytotoxicity MTT assay, flow cytometry analysis, and apoptosis analysis performed for mechanism investigation.ResultsThe tailored NPs were developed with a size of 252.3 ± 24.6 nm and zeta potential of 18.2 ± 4.4 mV capable of crossing the membrane of cancer cells. The drug loading and release efficacy assessment showed that the loading of TMX and Cur were 93.84% ± 1.95% and 90.18% ± 0.56%, respectively. In addition, the drug release was more controlled and slower than the free state. Polymeric nanocarriers improved controlled drug release 72.19 ± 2.72% of Tmx and 55.50 ± 2.86% of Cur were released from the Tmx-Cur-Gs NPs after 72 h at pH = 5.5. This confirms the positive effect of polymeric nanocarriers on the controlled drug release mechanism. moreover, the toxicity test showed that combination-drug delivery was much more greater than single-drug delivery in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. Cellular imaging showed excellent internalization of TMX-Cur-GS NPs in both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells and synergistic anticancer effects, with combination indices of 0.561 and 0.353, respectively.ConclusionThe combined drug delivery system had a greater toxic effect on cell lines than single-drug delivery. The synergistic effect of TMX and Cur with decreasing inhibitory concentrations could be a more promising system for BC-targeted therapy using GS NPs.