Recent Advances in the Biological Activities of Monocarbonyl Curcumin Analogues (MACs)

Curcumin, a principal component of the Indian spice turmeric, exhibits a wide range of biological activities but suffers from poor pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles. To overcome these limitations, monocarbonyl analogues of curcumin (MACs) have been developed through structural modifications, resulting in improved bioavailability and enhanced therapeutic potential. This review highlights recent advances in the development of MACs with a focus on their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitubercular, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antileishmanial, and anti-Alzheimer properties. Moreover, insights into their structure-activity relationships (SAR) are also discussed.