International Journal of Drug Research and Technology

CURCUMIN, A PROMISING ANTI-CANCER THERAPEUTIC: IT'S BIOACTIVITY AND DEVELOPMENT OF DRUG DELIVERY VEHICLES

Abstract

Subhankar Mandal

Curcumin, a natural polyphenol found in the dietary spice turmeric, has been demonstrated to inhibit cancer cell survival and proliferation, and to induce apoptosis without promoting the development of side effects. However, due to its sparing solubility and low bioavailability, curcumin has not yet been clinically used to treat cancer efficiently. This review describes the proposed bioactivity and mechanisms by which curcumin exhibits anti-cancer activity. Finally, I have reviewed the various approaches that have been studied to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of curcumin, including the preparation of co-crystals, and the development of delivery systems based on liposomes, micelles, exosomes, supramolecular gels and nanoparticles.