Melanoma is the most deadly form of skin cancer, with about 48,000 deaths each year worldwide. Growing evidence suggests that individual nutrients or dietary patterns might have important roles in the prevention of melanoma. Considering that melanoma is a potentially life-threatening cancer, novel protective and adjuvant treatments are needed to improve its prognosis. Curcumin is a bioactive substance extracted from rhizome of Curcuma longa L. Its global market is expected to grow in the next few years, especially in the pharmaceutical industry, due to its numerous physiological and pharmacological properties. For this review, we collected the available data on the protective and therapeutic role of curcumin against melanoma. We also discuss the chemistry, dietary sources, bioavailability, and metabolism of curcumin, and the mechanisms of action of its potential anticancer effects at the molecular level. Current challenges and future directions for research are also critically discussed.

Download full-text PDF

Source
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/01635581.2018.1412485DOI Listing

Publication Analysis

Top Keywords

curcumin melanoma
8
curcumin
4
melanoma chemistry
4
chemistry medicine
4
melanoma
4
medicine melanoma
4
melanoma deadly
4
deadly form
4
form skin
4
skin cancer
4

Similar Publications

: This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of chitosan-based bioadhesive films for facilitating the topical delivery of curcumin in skin cancer treatment, addressing the pharmacokinetic limitations associated with oral administration. : The films, which incorporated curcumin, were formulated using varying proportions of chitosan, polyvinyl alcohol, Poloxamer 407, and propylene glycol. These films were assessed for stability, drug release, in vitro skin permeation, cell viability (with and without radiotherapy), and skin irritation.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Synergistic Anti-Cancer Effects of Curcumin and Thymoquinone Against Melanoma.

Antioxidants (Basel)

December 2024

Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, 160 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA.

Combining anti-cancer agents in cancer therapies is becoming increasingly common because of their improved efficacy, reduced toxicity, and decreased risk of resistance development. Melanoma, a highly aggressive form of skin cancer characterized by limited treatment options due to chemoresistance, poses a considerable challenge for effective management. Here, we test the hypothesis that dietary supplements such as thymoquinone (TQ) and curcumin (CU) cooperatively modulate cancer-associated cellular mechanisms to inhibit melanoma progression.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF
Article Synopsis
  • Skin carcinoma, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, is affected by genetic factors, exposure to chemicals, immune system issues, and UV radiation.
  • The review discusses the potential of microbial and plant-derived compounds, as well as nanoparticles, in treating skin cancer, with a focus on their cytotoxic effects on cancer cells.
  • Key phytochemicals like quercetin, resveratrol, and curcumin are highlighted for their ability to induce cell death and regulate the cell cycle, while recent advancements in nanotechnology enhance targeted drug delivery and reduce systemic toxicity in skin cancer therapies.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Curcumin has been employed in traditional medicine for over a millennium to treat various ailments, and its global use is now widespread. Chinese medicine relies heavily on curcumin as a primary element and uses it to cure infectious diseases, skin disorders, depression, and stress. It has cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and anti-diabetic properties, as well as pharmacological effects on disorders like type II diabetes, atherosclerosis, and human immunodeficiency virus replication.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Background: Melanoma, a highly malignant skin tumor, can develop systemic metastases during the early stage. Several studies of melanoma animal models indicate that curcumin, a natural plant extract, inhibits melanoma growth through various mechanisms. To evaluate the relationships among different experimental conditions, curcumin itself, its derivatives, and special formulations, it is necessary to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?

Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!