سیناکورکومین 40

Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27761427/

Objective(s):

Diabetes mellitus is defined as a group of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both or insulin resistance. Curcumin inhibits NF-κB signaling pathway. The aim of this study is evaluation of the effect of Nano-curcumin on HbA1C, fast blood glucose and lipid profile in diabetic patients.

Materials and Methods:

Seventy type-2 diabetic patients (fasting blood glucose (FBG) ≥ 126 mg/dL or 2-hr postprandial blood glucose ≥200 mg/dl) randomly receivedeither Curcumin (as nano-micelle 80 mg/day) or placebo for 3 months in a double blind randomized clinical trial. Fasting blood glucose, HbA1C, and lipids profile were checked before and after the intervention. Data analyses, including parametric and nonparametric tests were done using the SPSS 11.5 software. A p value < 0.05 was regarded as statistically significant. (RCT registration code: IRCT2013081114330N1).

Results:

Mean age, BMI, FBG, total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), LDL, HDL, HbA1c , and sex and had no significant difference at the baseline between the groups. In Nano-curcumin group, a significant decrease was found in HbA1C, FBG, TG, and BMI comparing results of each subject before and after the treatment (p<0.05). By comparing pre- and post-treatment values among the groups, HbA1c, eAG, LDL-C, and BMI variables showed significant differences (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

These findings suggest an HbA1c lowering effect for Nano-curcumin in type-2 diabetes; also, it is partially decrease in serum LDL-C and BMI.

Link: DOI 10.1007/s00251-017-0992-8

Abstract

Migraine is a destabilizing neuroinflammatory disorder characterized by recurrent headache attacks. Evidences

show tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α play a role in neuroimmunity pathogenesis of migraine. TNF-α increase

prostanoid production, hyperexcitability of neurons, and nociceptor activation resulted in neuroinflammation and neurogenic pain. ω-3 fatty acids and curcumin exert neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects via several mechanisms including suppression of TNF-α gene expression and its serum levels. The aim of this study is an evaluation of synergistic effects of ω-3 fatty acids and nano-curcumin on TNF-α gene expression and serum levels in migraine patients. The present study performed as a clinical trial over a 2 month period included 74 episodic migraine patients in 4 groups and received ω-3 fatty acids, nano-curcumin, and combination of them or placebo. At the start and the end of the study, the gene expression of TNF-α and TNF-α serum levels was measured by real-time PCR and ELISA method, respectively. Our results showed that the combination of ω-3 fatty acids and nano-curcumin downregulated TNF-α messenger RNA (mRNA) significantly in a synergistic manner (P < 0.05). As

relative to gene expression, a significant greater reduction in serum levels of TNF-α were observed in the combination group, but no significant differences in other groups. Supplementation withω-3 fatty acids or nano-curcumin alone did not show significant reduction either in mRNA or serum levels of TNF-α. In addition, a much greater reduction in attack frequency was found in the combination group (P < 0.001). These findings indicated that ω-3 fatty acids and curcumin supplementation can be considered as a new promising approach in migraine management.

Authors: Seyed Ali Jazayeri-Tehrani, Seyed Mahdi Rezayat , Siavash Mansouri, Mostafa Qorbani, Seyed Moayed Alavian , Milad Daneshi-Maskooni, Mohammad-Javad Hosseinzadeh-Attar

Link: doi: 10.22038/nmj.2018.005.003

Objective(s):

Various beneficial effects of curcumin have been seen specially as anti-inflammator and antioxidant agent. However, until now no human studies have been done on curcumin’s role in control of appetite. So, the present study was done to determine the effect of nanocurcumin on appetite in obese Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) patients.

Materials and Methods:

This study was done in the central hospital of Oil Company, Tehran. According to the eligiblity criteria, 84 NAFLD patients with obesity were enrolled. The patients were devided randomly to 2 equal groups (nanocurcumin and placebo, 80 mg/day with meals, follow-up monthly for 3 months). In addition, lifestyle advises were presented. The general questionnaire, appetite sensations (using visual analogue scales [VAS]), , weight and height at the beginning and the end of the study were recorded

Results:

The mean age and body mass index (BMI) were 41.8(±5.6), 30.67(±2.14)and 42.5(±6.2)yrs and 30.75(±2.35)kg/m2 for nanocurcumin and placebo groups respectively. The baseline characteristics and dietary intakes were similar between patients, exception for energy, total fat, saturated fat, monounsaturated fatty acid, vitamins D, B1, B6, and folate (DFE). The appetite significantly reduced according to both unadjusted and adjusted analysis models.

Conclusion:

This study was the first assess of nanocurcumin’s role in control of appetite among obese NAFLD patients. Overall results showed the nanocurcumin supplementation reduced appetite significantly. However, determining the potential role of curcumin in managing of NAFLD- and obesity-related conditions need further study.

Authors: Dolati S, Aghebati-Maleki L, Ahmadi M, Marofi F, Babaloo Z, Ayramloo H, Jafarisavari Z, Oskouei H, Afkham A, Younesi V, Nouri M, Yousefi M

Link: doi: 10.1002/jcp.26301

Background:

In the current study, we aimed to identify nanocurcumin effects on microRNAs (miRNAs) in the peripheral blood of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). We intended to investigate the expression pattern of these miRNAs in experimental settings in vivo.

Research design and methods:

The expression levels of the selected 27 miRNAs known to be involved in the regulation of immune responses were analyzed in 50 RRMS patients and 35 healthy controls. The miRNA expression profiles were investigated by quantitative PCR (qPCR) at baseline and after 6 months of nanocurcumin therapy. Our data revealed that the expression of a number of microRNAs including miR-16, miR-17-

92, miR-27, miR-29b, miR-126, miR-128, miR-132, miR-155, miR-326, miR-550, miR-15a, miR-19b, miR-106b, miR-320a, miR-363, miR-31, miR-150, and miR-340 is regulated by nanocurcumin.

Results:

The results of the current work indicate that nano-curcumin is able to restore the expression pattern of dysregulated miRNAs in MS patients.

Conclusion:

We discovered that some miRNAs are deregulated in untreated patients compared with healthy controls and nanocurcumin-treated patients. This is a new finding that might represent the potential contribution of these miRNAs to MS pathogenesis. Taken together, these data provide novel insights into miRNA-dependent regulation of the function of B and T cells in MS disease and enrich our understanding of the effects mediated by a therapeutic approach that targets B and T cells.

Authors:Sanam Dolati , Majid Ahmadi , Reza Rikhtegar , Zohreh Babaloo , Hormoz Ayromlou , Leili Aghebati-Maleki , Mohammad Nouri , Mehdi Yousefi 

 Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.intimp.2018.05.018

Background:

MS is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes to brain inflammation and Th17 cells are considered to be important in multiple sclerosis pathogenesis. In the current study, we aimed to identify nanocurcumin effects on Th17 cells frequency, cytokines secretion, and expression of transcription factor of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).

Research design and methods:

In this study we investigated frequency of Th17 lymphocytes; the expression of transcription factor, associated cytokines and the concentration of them in 35 healthy controls, and from 25 patients at baseline and after 6 months of nanocurcumin treatment and also from 25 patients whose received placebo by flowcytometry, real-time PCR and ELISA, respectively.

Results:

Our analysis revealed that the proportions of Th17 were increased dramatically, along with increases in the levels of IL-17A, IL-23, and RORγt expression in MS patients in compared with healthy control group. Post-treatment evaluation of the nanocurcumin group revealed a significant decrease in Th17 associated parameters such as Th17 frequency (p = 0.029), expression levels of RORγt (p < 0.0001) and IL-17 (p = 0.0044) and also secretion level of IL-17 (p = 0.0011), but IL-23 mRNA expression levels and IL-23 concentration were not influenced by nanocurcumin. However, in the placebo group there is no significant changes in these factors.

Conclusion:

Our study suggests that the increase in proportion of Th17 cells might contribute to the pathogenesis of RRMS. The results of the current work indicated that nanocurcumin is able to restore the dysregulated of Th17 cells in MS patients.

Authors: Sanam Dolati , Majid Ahmadi , Leili Aghebti-Maleki, Abbas Nikmaram  Faroogh Marofi , Reza Rikhtegar , Hormoz Ayromlou , Mehdi Yousefi 

Link: doi: 10.1016/j.pharep.2018.05.008

Background:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Inflammation has ever been thought as disadvantageous in the pathophysiology of MS. Nanocurcumin has been used as an anti-inflammatory compound. The aim of this study was to identify effects of nanocurcumin on inflammatory mediators in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).

Research design and methods:

Fifty MS patients were randomly divided into two groups. The test group received nanocurcumin capsule daily for 6 months. Simultaneously, the control group received placebo. Real-Time PCR was employed to detect the probable changes in gene expression levels of miRNAs, and miRNA-dependent targets, and also transcription factors and pro-inflammatory cytokines in blood samples. ELISA was used to determine the alterations in these cytokines secretion levels. We have also examined EDSS score in MS patients in two groups.

Results:

 According to the results, a significant decrease in mRNA expression levels of miR-145 (p<0.0001), miR-132 (p=0.004), miR-16 (p=0.0034), STAT1 (p=0.0002), NF-κB (p<0.0001), AP-1 (p=0.0007), IL-1β (p=0.0017), IL-6 (p=0.017), IFN-γ (p<0.0001), CCL2 (p=0.0067), CCL5 (p=0.0034), TNF-α (p<0.0001) and also significant increase in expression levels of miRNAs targets; Sox2 (p=0.0001), sirtuin-1(p=0.0007), Foxp3 (p=0.0082), PDCD1 (p=0.003) was evident in nanocurcumin treated group compared with before treatment. The secretion levels of IFN-γ (p=0.0025), CCL2 (p=0.0029), and CCL5 (p=0.0003) were reduced dramatically in test group compared with placebo group.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, nanocurcumin may be more effective on the inflammatory features of MS. According to present results, nanocurcumin may inhibit neuroinflammation in MS patients.

Authors:: SSeyed Ali Jazayeri-Tehrani ,  Seyed Mahdi Rezayat, Siavash Mansouri,  Mostafa Qorbani, Seyed Moayed Alavian, Milad Daneshi-Maskooni, Mohammad-Javad Hosseinzadeh-Attar

Link: doi: 10.22038/NMJ.2018.005.003

Background:

various beneficial effects of curcumin have been seen specially as anti-inflammator and antioxidant agent. However, until now no human studies have been done on curcumin’s role in control of appetite. So, the present study was done to determine the effect of nanocurcumin on appetite in obese Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) patients.

Research design and methods:

This study was done in the central hospital of Oil Company, Tehran. According to the eligiblity criteria, 84 NAFLD patients with obesity were enrolled. The patients were devided randomly to 2 equal groups (nanocurcumin and placebo, 80 mg/day with meals, follow-up monthly for 3 months). In addition, lifestyle advises were presented. The general questionnaire, appetite sensations (using visual analogue scales [VAS]), , weight and height at the beginning and the end of the study were recorded.

Results:  

The mean age and body mass index (BMI) were 41.8(±5.6), 30.67(±2.14)and 42.5(±6.2)yrs and 30.75(±2.35)kg/m2 for nanocurcumin and placebo groups respectively. The baseline characteristics and dietary intakes were similar between patients, exception for energy, total fat, saturated fat, monounsaturated fatty acid, vitamins D, B1, B6, and folate (DFE). The appetite significantly reduced according to both unadjusted and adjusted analysis models.

Conclusion:

This study was the first assess of nanocurcumin’s role in control of appetite among obese NAFLD patients. Overall results showed the nanocurcumin supplementation reduced appetite significantly. However, determining the potential role of curcumin in managing of NAFLD- and obesity-related conditions need further study.

Authors: Alizadeh F, Javadi M, Karami AA, Gholaminejad F, Kavianpour M, Haghighian HK.

Link: DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5998

Background:

At least 50% of infertile couple’s problems are related to male factor infertility. This Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial conducted in Urology unit of Infertility Clinic on 60 infertile men. Patients were randomly assigned to one of intervention and placebo (n = 30) groups. Finally, 28 subjects in each group completed the study.

Research design and methods:

Participants in the intervention group took daily 80 mg curcumin nanomicelle and those in the placebo group took daily placebo for 10 weeks. Semen analysis, anthropometric, physical activity assessments, total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde, inflammatory factors, and reproductive hormones were measured at the baseline and at the end of the study.

Results:

At the end of study, statistically significant differences were seen in the total sperm count, sperm concentration, and motility in the intervention group to the control group. In treatment group, the total sperm count, sperm concentration, and motility levels were also statistically increased at the end of study compared to the baseline values. Curcumin nanomicelle supplementation also resulted in a statistically significant improvement in plasma levels of total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde, C-reactive protein, and tumor necrosis factor a in comparison to the placebo

Conclusion:

Medical therapy of asthenoteratospermia with curcumin nanomicelle supplement could improve quality of semen parameters. However, further investigation is suggested in this regard.

Authors: Seyed Ali Jazayeri-Tehrani , Seyed Mahdi Rezayat , Siavash Mansouri , Mostafa Qorbani , Seyed Moayed Alavian , Milad Daneshi-Maskooni , Mohammad-Javad Hosseinzadeh-Attar 

Link: DOI: 10.1186/s12986-019-0331-1

Background:

Few studies have assessed the effects of curcumin on NAFLD (mainly antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects). We aimed to determine the effects of nano-curcumin (NC) on overweight/obese NAFLD patients by assessing glucose, lipids, inflammation, insulin resistance, and liver function indices, especially through nesfatin.

Research design and methods:

This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in the Oil Company Central Hospital, Tehran. 84 overweight/obese patients with NAFLD diagnosed using ultrasonography were recruited according to the eligibility criteria (age 25-50 yrs., body mass index [BMI] 25-35 kg/m²). The patients were randomly divided into two equal NC (n = 42) and placebo (n = 42) groups. Interventions were two 40 mg capsules/day after meals for 3 months. Lifestyle changes were advised. A general questionnaire, a 24-h food recall (at the beginning, middle and end), and the short-form international physical activity questionnaire (at the beginning and end) were completed. Also, blood pressure, fatty liver degree, anthropometrics, fasting blood sugar (FBS) and insulin (FBI), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), high sensitive c-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), liver transaminases, and nesfatin were determined at the beginning and end.

Results:

NC compared with placebo significantly increased HDL, QUICKI, and nesfatin and decreased fatty liver degree, liver transaminases, waist circumference (WC), FBS, FBI, HbA1c, TG, TC, LDL, HOMA-IR, TNF-α, hs-CRP, and IL-6 (P < 0.05). The mean changes in weight, BMI, body composition (BC), and blood pressure were not significant (P > 0.05). After adjustment for confounders, the changes were similar to the unadjusted model.

Conclusion:

NC supplementation in overweight/obese NAFLD patients improved glucose indices, lipids, inflammation, WC, nesfatin, liver transaminases, and fatty liver degree. Accordingly, the proposed mechanism for ameliorating NAFLD with NC was approved by the increased serum nesfatin and likely consequent improvements in inflammation, lipids, and glucose profile. Further trials of nano-curcumin’s effects are suggested.

Link: doi:10.15171/icnj.2019.26

 Background:

Considering the evidence indicating the neuronal protective effects of curcumin in previous studies, this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, and parallel-group trial was aimed at exploring the possible nanomicelle curcumin (SinaCurcumin®, nano-micellar soft gel)-mediated impact on sleep, fatigue, and quality of life (QoL) in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Methods:

A sample of 50 PD patients were recruited and randomly divided into experimental (25) and control groups (25). Sleep quality, fatigue, and QoL were assessed based on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), and the Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire–39 (PDQ-39), respectively, at the beginning and the end of the study. The groups were treated for three months by 80 mg of nano-micellar soft gel twice a day.

Results:

Nanomicelle curcumin significantly increased sleep quality and QoL compared with placebo (P values = 0.0001 and 0.0002, respectively) in PD patients. This significant difference has not influenced by the duration of the disease, the severity of disease progression (Hoehn & Yahr scale), and the cumulative dose of levodopa. This supplement did not have a significant effect on the fatigue severity of patients compared to placebo.

Conclusion:

It has proposed that the nanomicelle curcumin can be used to improve sleep quality and QoL in PD patients.

Authors: Dolati S, Babaloo Z, Ayromlou H, Ahmadi M, Rikhtegar R, Rostamzadeh D, Roshangar L, Nouri M, Mehdizadeh A, Younesi V, Yousefi M.

Link: doi: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2019.01.007

Background:

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic incapacitating disease of the central nervous system, it has been reported that the disturbance in the development and function of Treg subpopulations is associated with the disability status in the RRMS. Accordingly, in the current study, the objective was to specify nanocurcumin effects on Treg cells frequency, and function in patients with RRMS.

Research design and methods:

50 patients with RRMS were enrolled in this study in which 25 were treated for at least six months with nanocurcumin capsules while the other half received placebo capsules as the control group. The blood sample was collected prior to the administration of nanocurcumin and placebo capsules and following six months. At baseline and after a six-month treatment, the frequency of Treg lymphocytes, the expression of transcription factor related to these cells and the secretion levels of cytokines were assessed by flowcytometry, real-time PCR and ELISA, respectively.

Results:

A significant reduction was observed in the proportion of peripheral Treg cell frequency, and the levels of TGF-β, IL-10 and FoxP3 expression in patients with RRMS. Our data revealed that the frequency of Treg cells (p = .0027), the expression of FoxP3 (p = .0005), TGF-β (p = .0005), and IL-10 (p = .0002) and the secretion levels of the TGF-β (p = .033), and IL-10 (p = .029) in cultured PBMCs are increased in nanocurcumin-treated group compared to placebo group.

Conclusion:

The results of the current work indicated that nanocurcumin is capable of restoring the frequency and function of Treg cells in MS patients.

Link: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12986-019-0331-1

Background:

Since lifestyle changes are main therapies for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), changing dietary components (nutritional or bioactive) may play a parallel important role. Few studies have assessed the effects of curcumin on NAFLD (mainly antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects). We aimed to determine the effects of nano-curcumin (NC) on overweight/obese NAFLD patients by assessing glucose, lipids, inflammation, insulin resistance, and liver function indices, especially through nesfatin.

Methods:

This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in the Oil Company Central Hospital, Tehran. 84 overweight/obese patients with NAFLD diagnosed using ultrasonography were recruited according to the eligibility criteria (age 25–50 yrs., body mass index [BMI] 25–35 kg/m2). The patients were randomly divided into two equal NC (n = 42) and placebo (n = 42) groups. Interventions were two 40 mg capsules/day after meals for 3 months. Lifestyle changes were advised. A general questionnaire, a 24-h food recall (at the beginning, middle and end), and the short-form international physical activity questionnaire (at the beginning and end) were completed. Also, blood pressure, fatty liver degree, anthropometrics, fasting blood sugar (FBS) and insulin (FBI), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), high sensitive c-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), liver transaminases, and nesfatin were determined at the beginning and end.

Authors: Mohammad Parohan,Payam Sarraf,Mohammad Hassan Javanbakht,Abbas Rahimi Foroushani,Sakineh Ranji-Burachaloo &Mahmoud Djalali

Link: https://doi.org/10.1080/1028415X.2019.1627770

Background:

Migraine is a disabling neurovascular disorder characterized by increasing levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress biomarkers. Curcumin and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) can exert neuroprotective effects through modulation of inflammation and oxidative stress. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the combined effects of nano-curcumin and CoQ10 supplementation on migraine symptoms and quality of life in migraine patients.

Research design and methods:

One-hundred men and women (mean age 32 years) with episodic migraine based on the International Headache Society (IHS) criteria participated in this study. The subjects were randomly divided into four groups as (1) combination of nano-curcumin (80 mg) plus CoQ10 (300 mg), (2) nano-curcumin (80 mg), (3) CoQ10 (300 mg) and (4) the control (nano-curcumin and CoQ10 placebo included oral paraffin oil) beside usual prophylactic drugs for 8 weeks. Frequency, severity, duration of headache attacks, the headache diary results (HDR) and headache disability based on migraine-specific questionnaires were assessed at the baseline and end of the study.

Results:

Ninety-one of 100 patients completed the study. The results showed a significant effect of nano-curcumin and CoQ10 supplementation on frequency, severity, duration of migraine attacks and HDR compared to other groups (All P < 0.001). Nano-curcumin and CoQ10 group also had better scores in migraine-specific questionnaires at the end of the study compared to other groups (All P < 0.001). There were no side effects reported by the participants.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest a possible synergistic effect of nano-curcumin and CoQ10 on clinical features of migraine.

Authors: Mehrzad Hajialilo, Sanam Dolati, Samaneh Abdolmohammadi‐Vahid, Majid Ahmadi, Amin Kamrani, Shadi Eghbal‐Fard, Arezou Ghassembaglou, Amir Valizadeh, Mohammad Hossein Musavi Shenas, Leili Aghebati‐Maleki, Hossein Samadi Kafil, Amir Mehdizadeh,Mehdi Yousefi

Link: DOI: 10.1002/jcb.28488

Abstract

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic rheumatic disease which mainly affects the axial skeleton and sacroiliac joints. T‐helper 17 (Th17) cells have been reportedly involved in AS pathogenesis. Nanocurcumin is considered to be beneficial, as an anti‐inflammatory compound, in AS patients treatment. In this study, Th17‐related immunological parameters were evaluated in AS patients. Transcription factors messenger RNA (mRNA) expression level, cytokines, and related microRNAs (miRNAs) were measured by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Additionally, Th17 frequency and cytokines secretion were evaluated by flow cytometry and

enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay tests, respectively. The frequency of Th17 was higher in AS patients. Gained data from nanocurcumin group also demonstrated that retinoic acid‐related orphan receptor γ (RORγt) and interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) mRNA expression levels were significantly decreased (P = 0.0001 and 0.0006, respectively), as the decrease also happened in Th17‐associated miRNAs including miR‐141, miR‐155, and miR‐200 (P = 0.04, P = 0.02, and P < 0.0001, respectively).

Posttreatment data of miR‐155 and miR‐200 in the nanocurcumin and placebo groups also showed a higher expression level in the placebo group compared with nanocurcumin‐treated patients. Some clinical symptoms of AS patients were also improved at the end of the treatment process. The results of this study showed the potential ability of nanocurcumin to regulate Th17 cells activity in AS patients. This study provided further evidence on the function and underlying mechanism of nanocurcumin helping better treatment of AS.

Authors: Safa Tahmasebi, Mohamed A. El‐Esawi, Zaid Hameed Mahmoud, Anton Timoshin, Hamed Valizadeh, Leila Roshangar, Mojtaba Varshoch, Aydin Vaez, Saeed Aslani,  Jamshid G. Navashenaq, Leili Aghebati‐Maleki, Majid Ahmadi

Link: doi: 10.1002/jcp.30233

Abstract

In novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), the increased frequency and overactivation of T helper (Th) 17 cells and subsequent production of large amounts of proinflammatory cytokines result in hyperinflammation and disease progression. The current study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of nanocurcumin on the frequency and responses of Th17 cells in mild and severe COVID‐19 patients. In this study, 40 severe COVID‐19 intensive care unit‐admitted patients and 40 patients in mild condition were included. The frequency of Th17 cells, the messenger RNA expression of Th17 cell‐related factors (RAR‐related orphan receptor γt, interleukin [IL]‐17, IL‐21, IL‐23, and granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor), and the serum levels of cy-tokines were measured in both nanocurcumin and placebo‐treated groups before and after treatment. A significant decrease in the number of Th17 cells, down-regulation of Th17 cell‐related factors, and decreased levels of Th17 cell‐elated cytokines were found in mild and severe COVID‐19 patients treated by nano-curcumin compared to the placebo group. Moreover, the abovementioned parameters were significantly decreased in the nanocurcumin‐treated group after treatment versus before treatment. Curcumin could reduce the frequency of Th17 cells and their related inflammatory factors in both mild and severe COVID‐19 patients. Hence, it could be considered as a potential modulatory compound in improving the patient’s inflammatory condition.

Authors: Kamila Hashemzadeh , Najmeh Davoudian , Mahmoud R Jaafari , Zahra Mirfeizi 

Link: doi: 10.2174/1874471013666191223152658

Background:

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease of the joints. Non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are being used for the treatment of osteoarthritis. However, their use is limited due to complications, such as gastrointestinal bleeding. Therefore, it is necessary to find alternative treatments for osteoarthritis. Recently, nanomicelle curcumin has been developed to increase the oral bioavailability of curcumin. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of nano curcumin on the alleviation of the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis patients.

Research design and methods:

In this randomized, double-blind controlled trial, the intervention group was administered 40 mg of nanocurcumin capsule every 12 hours over a period of six weeks, and the control group received the placebo (similar components of nanomicelle curcumin capsules yet without curcumin). In the final analysis, 36 patients in the nanocurcumin group and 35 patients in the placebo group were enrolled. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) was filled for patients in their first visit and at the end of six weeks. Differences were statistically significant at P-value < 0.05.

Results:

There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding gender, age, Kellgren score, and the duration of the disease before the intervention. A significant decrease was observed in the overall score, along with the scores of pain, stiffness and physical activity subscales of the WOMAC questionnaire in patients of the nano curcumin group compared with the placebo group.

Conclusion:

Nanocurcumin significantly improves the symptoms of osteoarthritis patients.

Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.intimp.2020.107088

Background:

As an ongoing worldwide health issue, Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been causing serious complications, including pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and multi-organ failure. However, there is no decisive treatment approach available for this disorder, which is primarily attributed to the large amount of inflammatory cytokine production. We aimed to identify the effects of Nano-curcumin on the modulation of inflammatory cytokines in COVID-19 patients.

Method:

Forty COVID-19 patients and 40 healthy controls were recruited and evaluated for inflammatory cytokine expression and secretion. Subsequently, COVID-19 patients were divided into two groups: 20 patients receiving Nano-curcumin and 20 patients as the placebo group. The mRNA expression and cytokine secretion levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-18 were assessed by Real-time PCR and ELISA, respectively.

Result:

Our primary results indicated that the mRNA expression and cytokine secretion of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-18 were increased significantly in COVID-19 patients compared with healthy control group. After treatment with Nano-curcumin, a significant decrease in IL-6 expression and secretion in serum and in supernatant (P = 0.0003, 0.0038, and 0.0001, respectively) and IL-1β gene expression and secretion level in serum and supernatant (P = 0.0017, 0.0082, and 0.0041, respectively) was observed. However, IL-18 mRNA expression and TNF-α concentration were not influenced by Nano-curcumin.

Conclusion:

Nano-curcumin, as an anti-inflammatory herbal based agent, may be able to modulate the increased rate of inflammatory cytokines especially IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA expression and cytokine secretion in COVID-19 patients, which may cause an improvement in clinical manifestation and overall recovery.

Authors: Malekzadeh M, Kia SJ, Mashaei L, Moosavi MS

Link: doi: 10.1002/cre2.330

Background:

Gingivitis can trigger gingival diseases such as periodontitis. Since the complete removal of microbial plaques by mechanical procedures is not conceivable in some conditions and also chemical mouthwashes have a lot of side effects, finding a new treatment strategy would be useful. In the present study, for the first time, the effects of oral nano‐curcumin on gingival inflammation in patients with gingivitis and mild periodontitis were assessed

Research design and methods:

Forty-eight patients with gingivitis and mild periodontitis participated in this clinical trial. In one group the patients were treated with Sina curcumin capsules 80 mg and the other group received a placebo. Clinical parameters, including modified gingival index, papillary bleeding index, and plaque index were determined on days 0, 7, 14, and 28. There were no significant differences in age, sex, papillary bleeding index (PBI), and modified gingival index (MGI) between the two groups at baseline. There was a dropout of two patients (both from the placebo group). 

Results:

The MGI and PBI have a significantly decreasing trend in both case and control groups and the decreases were severe in the case group. The differences between PBI and MGI in the two groups were significant at 14 and 28 days. The plaque index did not significantly change in either group over the study period. The trend of changes in plaque index was not different between the two groups of the study. In the current study, no side effect was found in the patients.

Conclusion:  

Oral nano‐curcumin has positive effects on the decrease of inflammation and gingival bleeding in patients with gingivitis and mild periodontitis. Nano‐curcumin capsules have a systemic target site with more bioavailability than topical forms.

Authors: Reza Ahmadi, Soofia Salari, Mohammad Davood Sharifi, Hamidreza Reihani, Mohammad Bagher Rostamiani, Morteza Behmadi, Zhila Taherzadeh, Saeed Eslami, Seyed Mahdi Rezayat,| Mahmoud Reza Jaafari, Sepideh Elyasi

Link: DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.2226

Background:

Curcumin, a natural polyphenolic compound, is proposed as a potential treatment option for patients with coronavirus disease by inhibiting the entry of virus to the cell, encapsulation of the virus and viral protease, as well as modulating various cellular signaling pathways. In this study, the efficacy and safety of nanocurcumin oral formulation has been evaluated in patients with mild-moderate Coronavirus dis-ease 2019 (COVID-19) in outpatient setting.

Methods:

In this triple-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial, sixty mild to moderate COVID-19 patients in outpatient setting who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were randomly allocated to treatment (n = 30) group to receive oral nanocurcumin formulation (Sinacurcumin soft gel which contains 40 mg curcuminoids as nanomi-celles), two soft gels twice a day after food for 2 weeks or placebo (n = 30) group. Patients’ symptoms and laboratory data were assessed at baseline and during follow-up period and compared between two groups.

Results:

All symptoms except sore throat resolved faster in the treatment group and the difference was significant for chills, cough and smell and taste disturbances. The CRP serum level was lower in the treatment group at the end of two weeks and the lymphocyte count was significantly higher in treatment group. No significant adverse reaction reported in the treatment group.

Authors: Bateni Z, Rahimi HR, Hedayati M, Afsharian S, Goudarzi R, Sohrab G.

Link: doi: 10.1002/ptr.7109

Background:

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is one of the most important health hazards. Curcumin is extracted from Curcuma longa (turmeric), which can affect the components of MetS. To increase the oral bioavailability of curcumin, nano-micelle curcumin is used instead of curcumin powder.

Research design and methods:

In this randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial, 50 patients with MetS were randomly assigned to two groups to receive either 80 mg/day nano-curcumin (n = 25) or placebo (n = 25), for 12 weeks anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and biochemical factors—including fasting blood sugar (FBS), Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), pancreatic β cell function (HOMA-β) and lipid profile were assessed at the baseline and the end of the study. Statistical analyses were done using SPSS software (Version 23)

Results:

The analysis between the two groups has illustrated a significant reduction in the average change of triglyceride (TG) levels (−60.5 ± 121.7 vs. 13.1 ± 78.1 mg/dL; p < .05) and HOMA-β (−5.7 ± 48.2 vs. −4.01

± 16.9; p < .05). But there were no significant differences in anthropometric measurements, blood pressure and biochemical factors—including FBS, HbA1c, HOMA-IR, HOMA-β, and lipid profile variables include (total cholesterol, LDL-C, and HDL-C)

at the end of the study.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, supplementation with nano-micelle curcumin

significantly improved serum TG in MetS patients.

Authors: Ali Beheshti Namdar, Mitra Ahadi, Seyed Mousalreza Hoseini, Hassan Vosoghinia, Hosein Rajablou, Salman Farsi, Amirsadra Zangouei, Hamid Reza Rahimi

Link: doi: 10.22038/AJP.2023.21919

Objective(s):

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by excessive lipid accumulation in hepatocytes with no consumption of alcohol. Recently, curcumin is a natural polyphenol found in turmeric has been examined for the treatment of NAFLD. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of 160 mg/day nano-micelle curcumin on the amelioration of NAFLD by measuring liver enzymes.

Materials and Methods:

Patients with NAFLD were randomly divided into curcumin (intervention group n=33) and placebo (n=33) groups and at the end of the study, the data of 56 participants who completed the 2-month intervention were analyzed. Laboratory tests and questionnaires were used to gather information. Both groups received recommendations for lifestyle modification, and were advised to other necessary advices. Patients in the curcumin group received 160 mg/day of nano-micelle curcumin in two divided doses for 60 days. The 2 groups were followed up for two months and clinical and laboratory indices were compared.

Results:

Our data showed a significant decrease in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in the curcumin group (p<0.01) as well as a significant difference between the groups before and after the intervention in curcumin group (p<0.05). Interestingly, a meaningful decrease in AST serum level was observed in the intervention group (p<0.01).

Conclusion:

Our study demonstrated that short-term supplementation with nano-micelle curcumin results in the reduction of AST and ALT and is beneficial for the treatment of NAFLD.

Authors: Safa Tahmasebi, Balsam Qubais Saeed, Elmira Temirgalieva, Alexei Valerievich Yumashev, Mohamed A El-Esawi, Jamshid Gholizadeh Navashenaq, Hamed Valizadeh, Armin Sadeghi, Saeed Aslani, Mehdi Yousefi, Farhad Jadidi-Niaragh, Javad Adigozalou, Majid Ahmadi, Leila Roshangar

Link: doi: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119437

Abstract

Authors: Mahdi Atabaki, Zhaleh Shariati-Sarabi, Jalil Tavakkol-Afshari, Ali Taghipour,4 Mahmood Reza Jafari, Amin Reza Nikpoor and Mojgan Mohammadi,*

Link: doi: 10.22038/AJP.2021.19380

Background:

Osteoarthritis is the most common disease in the group of joint diseases, and its incidence is directly related to aging. Given the anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin as an active ingredient of turmeric, we aimed to investigate the effects of this compound in a new curcumin nanomicelle formula named SinaCurcumin^® on the expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) involved in immune responses of patients with osteoarthritis.

Research design and methods:

We divided 30 patients with osteoarthritis into two groups namely, nano curcumin-receiving (15 patients) and placebo-receiving (15 patients) and we studied them for 3 months. The Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) approved our study with the IRCT registry No. IRCT20151028024760N4. We evaluated the rates of the expression of microRNAs 146, 155, 16, and 138 employing SYBR Green Real-Time PCR method.

Results:

The expression of miRNAs 155, 138, and 16 revealed a significant reduction in the curcumin-receiving group (p=0.002, p=0.024 and p=0.0001 respectively).

Conclusion:

Our research data indicated that the consumption of curcumin in patients with osteoarthritis could affect the immune system partially via altering the expression of microRNAs and cytokines

Authors: Ali Beheshti Namdar , Mitra Ahadi , Seyed Mousalreza Hoseini , Hassan Vosoghinia , Hosein Rajablou , Salman Farsi , Amirsadra Zangouei , Hamid Reza Rahimi

Link: https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_21919_d25b4727a361db3bb66d903feb056e76.pdf

Background:

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by excessive lipid accumulation in hepatocytes with no consumption of alcohol. Recently, curcumin is a natural polyphenol found in turmeric has been examined for the treatment of NAFLD. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of 160 mg/day nano-micelle curcumin on the amelioration of NAFLD by measuring liver enzymes.

Research design and methods:

Patients with NAFLD were randomly divided into curcumin (intervention group n=33) and placebo (n=33) groups and at the end of the study, the data of 56 participants who completed the 2-month intervention were analyzed. Laboratory tests and questionnaires were used to gather information. Both groups received recommendations for lifestyle modification, and were advised to other necessary advices. Patients in the curcumin group received 160 mg/day of nanomicelle curcumin in two divided doses for 60 days. The 2 groups were followed up for two months and clinical and laboratory indices were compared.

Results:

Our data showed a significant decrease in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in the curcumin group (p<0.01) as well as a significant difference between the groups before and after the intervention in curcumin group (p<0.05). Interestingly, a meaningful decrease in AST serum level was observed in the intervention group (p<0.01).

Conclusion:

 Our study demonstrated that short-term supplementation with nano-micelle curcumin results in the reduction of AST and ALT and is beneficial for the treatment of NAFLD.

Authors: Ramezani V, Ghadirian S, Shabani M, Boroumand MA, Daneshvar R, Saghafi F.

Link: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885-023-10730-8

Background:

Oral mucositis (OM) is one of the main problems in almost all patients undergoing head and neck radiotherapy (RT). Owning to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin, the effect of both oral and topical formulations of curcumin was assessed on radiation-induced OM (ROM) in this study.

Research design and methods:

The safety and efficacy of curcumin mouthwash 0.1% (w/v) and curcumin-nanocapsule were evaluated in ameliorating severity and pain/burning associated with OM during RT. The current randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on 37 patients with head and neck cancers. Patients with grades 1 to 3 of ROM were randomized to receive one of the three interventions: curcumin mouthwash (0.1% w/v); Sinacurcumin soft gel containing 40 mg curcuminoids as nano-micelles (SinaCurcumin®40); or placebo mouthwash with a similar transparent appearance to curcumin mouthwash for 1 min three times daily during RT. Study evaluations were conducted at baseline and weekly thereafter for up to 3 weeks using the Numeric rating scale (NRS) and world health organization (WHO) scale.

Results:

among the 45 patients randomized, 37 (mean (SD) age of 53.36 (15.99) years; 14 [37.8%] women) completed the treatment according to the protocol. Patients treated with either oral or topical curcumin showed a significantly reduced severity and burning related to OM during the first 3 weeks after administration (P-Value < 0.001) as compared with the placebo. At study termination, more than 33% of subjects utilizing curcumin mouthwash and 15% of patients utilizing curcumin-nanocapsule remained ulcer free while all of the placebo-receiving subjects had OM. The reduction of NRS and WHO scale between curcumin groups was comparable without significant differences.

Conclusion:

Both curcumin mouthwash and nanocapsule were effective, safe, and well-tolerated in the treatment of radiation-induced OM. Higher doses of curcumin and larger sample sizes can be used for further investigation in future studies.

Authors: Saeedeh Talebi, Andrew S. Day, Mahammad Safarian, Seyed Javad Sayedi, Mahmood Reza Jaafari, Zahra Abbasi, Hanieh Barghchi, Hamid Reza Kianifar

Link: https://doi.org/10.1002/fsn3.3323

Background:

Inflammation may develop due to internal dysfunction of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein or external factors in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). This prospective randomized clinical trial aimed to ascertain the effects of nano-curcumin as an anti-inflammatory agent and a CFTR modulator on clinical and inflammatory markers in children with CF.

Research design and methods:

Children with CF were randomly assigned to receive daily curcumin or a placebo for 3 months. The primary outcome measure was to evaluate inflammatory indices, nasopharyngeal swab analysis, and clinical assessments via spirometry, anthropometric measurements, and quality of life (QOL) analysis. Sixty children were included.

Results:

Intra-group changes comparison showed that curcumin decreased the level of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (median: −0.31 mg/L, IQR: −1.53 to 0.81; p = .01) and fecal calprotectin level (−29 μg/g, −57.5 to 11.5; p = .03), also increased the level of interleukin (IL)-10 (6.1 pg/mL, 4.5–9; p = .01). Moreover, curcumin improved the overall QOL and the subscales of the questionnaire. Inter-group changes comparison depicted the number of Pseudomonas colonies reduced by about 52% in the curcumin group and gained weight by about 16% (p > .05)

Conclusion:

Nano-curcumin seems to be considered as an effective nutritional supplement on hs-CRP, IL-10, fecal calprotectin levels, and improving QOL in patients with CF.

Authors: Mahdieh Zare’i, Masoumeh Rabieepour, Rasoul Ghareaghaji, Rasoul Zarrin, Amir Hossein Faghfouri

Link: 10.1002/ptr.8114

Abstract

Considering the anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin, the present study was designed to investigate the effect of nano-curcumin on respiratory indices and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients as a common pulmonary disease causing restricted airflow and breathing problems. In the current double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial study, 60 patients with stages 3 and 4 COPD were randomly assigned into 80 mg nano-curcumin (n = 30) and placebo groups (n = 30) for 3 months. The effect of nano-curcumin on pulmonary function was evaluated by the first second of forced expiration (FEV1) to the full, forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio. IL-6 serum level, blood pressure, and anthropometric indices were also measured. Nano-curcumin supplementation led to a significant decrease in IL-6 level (p < 0.001) and an increase in FEV1 (p < 0.001), FVC (p = 0.003), and FEV1/FVC (p < 0.001) compared to placebo at the endpoint. Nano-curcumin had a significantly increasing effect on weight and body mass index compared to the placebo group (P_{ANCOVA adjusted for baseline values} = 0.042). There was a meaningful improvement in systolic blood pressure in the nano-curcumin group compared to the placebo group (P_{ANCOVA adjusted for baseline values} = 0.026). There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and diastolic blood pressure (P_{ANCOVA adjusted for baseline values} >0.05). Nano-curcumin supplement seems to have favorable effects on inflammation status and respiratory indices of patients with severe COPD.