Biological Properties of Curcumin-Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Action

Abstract

Curcuminoids, a group of phenolic compounds isolated from the roots of Curcuma longa (Zingiberaceae), exhibit a variety of beneficial effects on health and on events that help in preventing certain diseases. A vast majority of these studies were carried out with curcumin (diferuloyl methane), which is a major curcuminoid. The most detailed studies using curcumin include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antiviral, and antiinfectious activities. In addition, the wound healing and detoxifying properties of curcumin have also received considerable attention. As a result of extensive research on the therapeutic properties of curcumin, some understanding on the cellular, molecular, and biochemical mechanism of action of curcumin is emerging. These findings are summarized in this review.

Keywords:

• curcuminoid
• spice
• nutraceutical
• food additive
• inflammation
• cancer

Acknowledgement

The authors acknowledge the excellent secretarial assistance provided by Ms. Karen Edwards, Assistant to the Chairman, Department of Physiology and Molecular Medicine, Medical College of Ohio, Toledo, OH 43615.