DK1 Induces Apoptosis via Mitochondria-Dependent Signaling Pathway in Human Colon Carcinoma Cell Lines In Vitro.

Extensive research has been done in the search for innovative treatments against colon adenocarcinomas; however, the incidence rate of patients remains a major cause of cancer-related deaths in Malaysia. Natural bioactive compounds such as curcumin have been substantially studied as an alternative to anticancer drug therapies and have been surmised as a potent agent but, nevertheless, remain deficient due to its poor cellular uptake. Therefore, efforts now have shifted toward mimicking curcumin to synthesize novel compounds sharing similar effects.

Design, synthesis and cytotoxic effects of curcuminoids on HeLa, K562, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cancer cell lines.

Background: Curcumin is one of the leading compound extracted from the dry powder of Curcuma longa (Zingiberaceae family), which possess several pharmacological properties. However, in vivo administration exhibited limited applications in cancer therapies.

Results: Twenty-four curcumin derivatives have synthesized, which comprises cyclohexanone 1-10, acetone 11-17 and cyclopentanone 18-24 series.