Curcumin in ovarian cancer: mechanistic insights and translational potential.

In 30 seconds

This systematic review assessed curcumin and curcumin nanoformulations in preclinical ovarian cancer models, evaluating 21 studies. The evidence suggests curcumin affects several signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt/mTOR, NF-κB, JAK/STAT3, and Wnt/β-catenin, with findings associated with increased apoptosis, reduced proliferation, and inhibition of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Studies also reported enhanced sensitivity to cisplatin and paclitaxel. Nanoformulations were reported to improve bioavailability and therapeutic performance compared with free curcumin. These findings are preclinical; clinical studies are needed to establish whether curcumin has a supportive treatment role in ovarian cancer.

Key findings

• The review evaluated 21 preclinical studies of curcumin and its nanoformulations in ovarian cancer.
• Curcumin-related pathway effects were associated with increased apoptosis, reduced proliferation, and inhibition of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition.
• Preclinical studies reported enhanced sensitivity to cisplatin and paclitaxel with curcumin.
• Micelles, dendrosomes, liposomes, and core-shell nanoparticles were reported to improve bioavailability and therapeutic performance versus free curcumin.

Why it matters

The review brings together mechanistic evidence suggesting that curcumin may affect tumour growth, invasive behaviour, and chemotherapy sensitivity in ovarian cancer models. It also highlights formulation strategies intended to improve curcumin’s performance. However, these findings do not establish clinical benefit, and the proposed effects—including modulation of the tumour microenvironment—require confirmation in human studies.

What to keep in mind

The evidence is from preclinical models, and the review notes that clinical studies are needed. Evidence for effects on tumour-associated macrophage polarization is limited.