Latest in Vitro and in Vivo Assay, Clinical Trials and Patents in Cancer Treatment using Curcumin: A Literature Review.

Curcumin, the main active compound of the curcuma root, shows antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor properties which have been demonstrated in preclinical and clinical trials. Its antitumor activity is mediated by its ability to act directly on the tumor cell, activating apoptosis pathways and indirectly inhibiting the process of inflammation, angiogenesis, and metastasis in the tumor microenvironment. In addition, it has a preventive activity such as radio and/or chemosensitizer. These effects have been evident in in vitro assays but have also been corroborated in patient trials either through the isolated use of curcumin or through its association with other agents. Moreover, curcumin has demonstrated a low induction of side effects. Numerous patents have been developed in connection with the administration and use of curcumin against different types of cancer. All this justifies the interest for the development of new laboratory studies and especially of clinical trials to validate this compound as a dietary supplement in both the healthy and the oncological population. The present review aims to address the most recent in vitro investigations and the latest clinical trials and patents related to the curcumin agent to provide an up-to-date overview of the latest advances in relation to its antitumor effect.