Molecular Mechanisms of Nanocurcumin in Breast Cancer Chemotherapy. From Bench to Bedside

Abstract

The paper Molecular Mechanisms of Nanocurcumin in Breast Cancer Chemotherapy addresses the way nanocurcumin, a nanoparticle formulation of curcumin, can enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy for the treatment of breast cancer. Curcumin, a polyphenol found in the spice turmeric (Curcuma longa), exhibits anticancer properties but is hampered by low aqueous solubility and low bioavailability, which limits its therapeutic potential. Nanocurcumin, through advanced delivery systems, overcomes these limitations, increasing curcumin's stability, bioavailability, and therapeutic action, with the additional potential for reducing side effects compared to conventional chemotherapy. Mechanisms through which nanocurcumin exhibits anticancer action are examined in the review, including cell proliferation inhibition, apoptosis induction, and interference with essential signaling pathways like NF-κB and PI3K/AKT/mTOR. Such actions also counteract drug resistance in chemoresistant breast cancer cells. Preclinical data validate its effectiveness in reducing tumor size and improving bioavailability, suggesting a valuable adjunct to traditional chemotherapy. Yet, broad clinical application is constrained by as-yet-unresolved issues such as best dosing and extensive safety testing. Current research involves the combination of nanocurcumin with traditional therapy and other natural products to achieve optimal therapeutic gain with less toxicity. Regulatory approval, particularly by the FDA, will require massive clinical trials to confirm its safety and effectiveness.