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Curcumin: An Insight into Molecular Pathways Involved in Anticancer Activity
Priyanka Joshi1, Sushil Joshi2, Deepak Semwal3
1Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, Rajasthan, India.
Mini Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry
|January 22, 2021
Summary
Curcuma longa, particularly its compound curcumin, shows significant anticancer potential by activating apoptosis in cancer cells. This natural compound targets multiple molecular pathways, offering broad therapeutic possibilities for various cancers.
Area of Science:
- Phytochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Curcuma longa (turmeric) is traditionally used in Indian medicine.
- Its metabolites, including curcumin, exhibit anticancer properties.
- Curcumin is known to induce apoptosis in cancer cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight curcumin biosynthesis and phytochemistry.
- To explore diverse molecular pathways involved in curcumin's anticancer activity.
- To understand the role of secondary messengers in mediating anticancer effects.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on Curcuma longa and curcumin.
- Analysis of phytochemical constituents and their anticancer relevance.
- Examination of molecular signaling pathways influenced by curcumin.
Main Results:
- Curcumin targets numerous signaling pathways, including NF-kB, WNT/β-catenin, COX-2, STAT3, VEGF, AKT, and others.
- These pathways are crucial for regulating secondary messengers involved in cancer progression.
- Curcumin's action is effective across various cancer types.
Conclusions:
- Curcumin possesses broad-spectrum anticancer activity.
- Its efficacy is mediated through the modulation of multiple molecular and signaling pathways.
- Further research into curcumin's biosynthesis and mechanisms can unlock its therapeutic potential.
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